Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

This creamy Turkey Bacon chicken recipe is a decadent and delicious dinner that’s both easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for company. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a flavorful meal that combines tender chicken with crispy turkey bacon in a rich and creamy sauce. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will surely be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon and creamy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich taste makes it suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easily accessible ingredients, you can whip this up without a long shopping list.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this creamy Turkey Bacon chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. These help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Kitchen shears
• Measuring cups
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture on the turkey bacon.
• Kitchen Shears: These make cutting the turkey bacon quick and easy, saving time in the kitchen.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your sauce.

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

Cut the turkey bacon into small pieces and add them to a skillet. Fry over medium-high heat until crispy, which takes about 10 minutes. Once done, 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

While the bacon cooks, prepare your chicken by cutting each breast in half lengthwise to create four smaller cutlets. Sprinkle them with garlic powder and pepper, then coat them lightly in flour.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the floured chicken cutlets to the skillet with remaining turkey bacon fat. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown. If splattering occurs, reduce the heat. Once browned, set them aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Allow it to bubble until reduced by half—this should take around 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Stir in heavy cream until bubbling begins again. Add back in both cooked chicken and turkey bacon. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked through and sauce thickens to your preference.

Enjoy this creamy Turkey Bacon chicken recipe with your favorite sides or simply on its own!

How to Serve Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Serving creamy Turkey Bacon chicken can elevate your dinner experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some great ideas for serving this delightful meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of thyme to complement the creaminess and add an earthy note.

Over Pasta

• Fettuccine: Serve the chicken over fettuccine for a hearty meal that absorbs the creamy sauce well.
• Penne: Use penne pasta for a fun texture that holds onto the sauce.

With Rice

• White Rice: Serve alongside fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious cream sauce.
• Wild Rice: Opt for wild rice for a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the dish.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Sautéed Spinach: Place the creamy Turkey Bacon chicken on a bed of sautéed spinach for added nutrition and vibrant color.

How to Perfect Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

To ensure your creamy Turkey Bacon chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. They will help you enhance flavor, texture, and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh chicken and high-quality turkey bacon for the best taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to achieve an even golden crust.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste as you go; add more garlic powder or pepper if needed for an extra kick.
• Let It Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest briefly before slicing to retain its juices.
• Control Heat Carefully: If you notice splattering, lower the heat to prevent burning while still cooking through properly.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Pairing your creamy Turkey Bacon chicken with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color, nutrients, and freshness to balance the richness of the dish.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, making it a delightful side.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a favorite; they pair perfectly with rich sauces.
5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs as a light side.
6. Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
7. Quinoa Salad: A citrusy quinoa salad adds texture and is packed with nutrients, enhancing your meal’s health factor.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings summer vibes and sweetness that goes well with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Not using enough seasoning – Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping the bacon fat – The flavor from turkey bacon fat is essential. Make sure to leave some in the pan for cooking the chicken and creating a rich sauce.
• Rushing the sauce – Allowing the sauce time to reduce enhances its flavor. Take the full 3-4 minutes for bubbling before adding cream.
• Using low-quality ingredients – Quality matters! Invest in good chicken and fresh ingredients for the best taste in your creamy turkey bacon chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.

Reheating Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring between, until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken.

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular bacon if you prefer. It will add a different flavor profile but will still be delicious!

How can I customize my Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken goes great with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken breast.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients or serve it with various sides. Give it a try; your family will love it!