Name: Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 strips turkey bacon; 2 large chicken breasts; Flour (for dredging); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Pepper (to taste); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup heavy cream

This creamy Turkey Bacon chicken recipe is a decadent and delicious dinner that’s easy enough for a weeknight and tasty enough for company. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish that delights with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe showcases the versatility of chicken while using turkey bacon for an added savory twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only 5 minutes and a total time of 30 minutes, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
Rich Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love.
Versatile Dish: This dish pairs well with various sides like rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for both family meals and entertaining guests, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples, making it easy to prepare without special shopping trips.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy delight.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Kitchen shears
Measuring cups and spoons
Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken and turkey bacon, enhancing flavor.
Kitchen Shears: They are perfect for quickly cutting turkey bacon into strips without mess.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your sauce.

Ingredients

To create this delightful creamy Turkey Bacon chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

6 strips Turkey Bacon
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

Start by cutting up the Turkey Bacon. Add it to a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry until crispy (about 10 minutes). Once done, remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of fat in the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the turkey bacon cooks, cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create smaller cutlets. Sprinkle them with garlic powder and pepper, then coat each piece in flour.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Add the coated chicken cutlets to the skillet with remaining turkey bacon fat. Cook over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. If splattering occurs, lower the heat. Once browned, remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Allow it to bubble until reduced by half (approximately 3-4 minutes).

Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Finish Cooking

Stir in the heavy cream. Once bubbling begins again, add back in your cooked chicken and turkey bacon. Simmer for another 5 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through and sauce reaches desired consistency.

Now you’re ready to serve this delectable creamy Turkey Bacon chicken dish! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Serving Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is all about enhancing its rich flavors while providing a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests and satisfy your family.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate.
Sautéed Green Beans: Toss green beans in olive oil and garlic for a quick, flavorful side.
Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil and roast for a tender, slightly crispy treat.

Add a Starch Element

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the dish’s richness beautifully.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs can soak up the delicious sauce from the chicken.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can provide a healthy contrast to the creamy chicken.

Elevate with Bread Options

Crusty French Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are always a hit.

How to Perfect Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Perfecting this dish enhances its flavor and ensures it turns out delicious every time. Follow these tips for the best results.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken breasts and high-quality turkey bacon for maximum flavor.
Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allow enough time for each ingredient to cook properly, ensuring even browning.
Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste the sauce before serving; feel free to add more pepper or garlic powder based on your preference.
Use Low Heat When Needed: If splattering occurs, lower the heat to prevent burns and ensure even cooking.
Rest Chicken Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps keep it juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Complementing your Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with the rich sauce.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and color without overpowering flavors.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory chicken dish.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delightful crunch and earthy flavor contrast.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs sauces well while adding volume to your meal.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens dressed lightly offers freshness and balance to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken perfect, it’s essential to avoid these common pitfalls.

Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to blandness. Always sprinkle garlic powder and pepper before cooking for enhanced flavor.
Not Letting the Sauce Reduce: Skipping the reduction step means missing out on a rich sauce. Allow the broth and cream to bubble and thicken for a more decadent dish.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar chicken or cream can affect taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Skipping the Turkey Bacon Frying Step: Not frying the Turkey Bacon until crispy can result in an overly fatty texture. Ensure it’s crispy for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions regarding Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken.

What is Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken?

Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is a delicious main course featuring chicken breasts cooked in a creamy sauce with crispy turkey bacon. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I substitute other meats?

Yes! You can use chicken, beef, or lamb instead of turkey bacon if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

What should I serve with this dish?

Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. Choose sides that complement its rich flavors.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat as needed.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients according to your taste preferences. Try it out; you’ll love its creamy texture combined with savory turkey bacon!