Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

This creamy Turkey Bacon chicken recipe is a decadent and delicious dinner that’s easy enough for a weeknight and tasty enough for company. With rich flavors and a smooth sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of cream, chicken broth, and seasonings creates a rich and savory sauce that elevates the meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use chicken or turkey as your protein, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy texture and crispy bits of turkey bacon are sure to impress family and friends alike.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, clean-up is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy Turkey Bacon chicken dish, you’ll need some essential tools that will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Kitchen shears
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop flavor in your dish.
• Kitchen Shears: These make cutting the turkey bacon quick and easy without the mess of a knife.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements help achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your recipe.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Bacon

• 6 strips Turkey Bacon

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts
• Flour (for dredging)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pepper (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream

How to Make Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. Cut the Turkey Bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears.
2. Add the pieces to a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Fry until crispy, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of fat in the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create smaller cutlets.
2. Sprinkle with garlic powder and pepper, then coat lightly with flour.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Place the coated chicken cutlets into the skillet with remaining fat.
2. Cook over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. If splattering occurs, reduce heat. Remove cooked chicken from skillet once browned.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter to the skillet used for cooking.
2. Allow it to bubble until reduced by half, approximately 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Stir in the heavy cream.
2. Once bubbling, add back in both cooked chicken and turkey bacon.
3. Cook together for another 5 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through and sauce reaches desired thickness.

Enjoy your creamy Turkey Bacon chicken! This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or your favorite side vegetable for a complete meal that everyone will love.

How to Serve Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

This creamy Turkey Bacon chicken dish is versatile and can be served in various ways, enhancing its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your Creamy Turkey Bacon chicken with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. Opt for a sourdough loaf or a baguette for an extra touch.

Accompany with a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.

Top with Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish for an additional layer of flavor that complements the creaminess.

Serve Over Rice or Pasta

• For a heartier meal, serve your Creamy Turkey Bacon chicken over fluffy rice or al dente pasta. Both options absorb the delicious sauce well.

How to Perfect Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

To create the perfect Creamy Turkey Bacon chicken, follow these simple tips that will enhance your cooking process and final dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Don’t rush the bacon: Allow the turkey bacon to become crispy before removing it from the pan; this adds depth to the dish.
• Monitor heat levels: Adjust the heat when cooking chicken to avoid burning while ensuring it’s cooked through.
• Thicken wisely: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer after adding cream until reaching your desired consistency.
• Balance flavors: Taste as you go; adjust seasoning with more pepper or lemon juice if needed for brightness.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Complement your Creamy Turkey Bacon chicken with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base that pairs perfectly with rich sauces.
2. Steamed Asparagus
   Tender asparagus spears add color and crunch, offering a healthy balance to the richness of the chicken.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring earthiness and texture, making them an excellent side option.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
5. Sautéed Spinach
   Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with olive oil and garlic adds vibrant green goodness that complements any plate.
6. Caramelized Carrots
   Sweet caramelized carrots provide natural sweetness that balances out savory flavors beautifully.
7. Cauliflower Rice
   Light and low-carb cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute for grains, soaking up all the delicious sauce while being healthy.
8. Couscous Pilaf
   Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs adds texture and absorbs flavors well from the creamy sauce above it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can improve your experience with this recipe. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the dredging step: Dredging the chicken in flour helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce. Always coat your chicken before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the skillet’s temperature, resulting in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Not allowing the sauce to reduce: Skipping the reduction process can lead to a watery sauce. Allow it to simmer until it thickens to enhance flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth significantly impacts the dish’s taste. Use a good-quality chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste is different; don’t hesitate to adjust garlic powder and pepper according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

• Freeze in a suitable container or freezer bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken:

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even lean cuts of beef or lamb for different flavors.

What can I serve with Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I customize the sauce?

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or stir in mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Is there a dairy-free option available?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

This creamy Turkey Bacon chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Turkey Bacon chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or add-ins to suit your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!