This Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a rich creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy a gourmet experience without the fuss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon and creamy sauce creates an irresistible taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, rice, or veggies to customize your meal according to your preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful blend of colors and textures makes this dish visually appealing for any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the succulent chicken and crispy bacon in this satisfying meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating a delicious meal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Kitchen Shears
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Paper Towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture for the turkey bacon.
- Kitchen Shears: Using kitchen shears makes cutting bacon quick and easy, saving time during preparation.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for achieving the right flavor balance in your creamy sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Dish
- 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/whipping cream
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon
Cut the turkey bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears. Add it to a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry until crispy, about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the bacon cooks, cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four smaller cutlets. Sprinkle them with garlic powder and pepper. Coat each piece in flour evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet with remaining turkey bacon fat, add the chicken cutlets. Cook over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown. If splattering occurs, reduce heat slightly. Once browned, remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter to the skillet. Allow it to bubble until reduced by half, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Stir in heavy cream; once bubbling begins again, return both chicken and turkey bacon back into the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until chicken is thoroughly cooked through and sauce has thickened to your preference.
Enjoy your creamy Turkey Bacon chicken served hot!
How to Serve Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
Serving Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
With Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette add freshness and balance to the dish.
Over Rice or Pasta
- Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
- Pasta: Serve over fettuccine or penne for a comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Accompanied by Vegetables
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until slightly crispy provide a nutritious contrast.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds color and nutrients while pairing nicely with the dish’s creaminess.
With Bread
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be served warm and are great for mopping up the creamy goodness.
How to Perfect Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
To make your Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken even more delicious, consider these handy tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality turkey bacon to enhance flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook just until golden brown to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; feel free to add more lemon juice or pepper if desired.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Use Full-Fat Cream: For a truly creamy sauce, stick with heavy whipping cream rather than lighter options.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the dish perfectly.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables grilled until charred adds a smoky flavor that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with herbs provides a healthy grain option that is light yet filling.
- Creamed Spinach: Rich and velvety creamed spinach offers an indulgent twist that pairs well with chicken.
- Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw can cut through the creaminess of the dish nicely.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender bring sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold chicken – Starting with cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
- Skipping the dredging process – Failing to coat the chicken in flour can result in a less flavorful crust. Make sure to dredge the chicken well for that perfect texture.
- Overcooking the turkey bacon – Cooking turkey bacon too long can make it tough and dry. Fry it until just crispy; remember it will continue cooking after you remove it from the pan.
- Neglecting the sauce consistency – Not allowing the sauce to reduce enough can leave it too thin. Keep an eye on it, and let it bubble until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Not seasoning properly – Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Be generous with salt and pepper, adjusting according to your taste preferences.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Divide into portions for easy thawing and reheating later.
Reheating Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
- Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed, and stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Yes, you can use regular bacon if you prefer. Just keep in mind that regular bacon is fattier, which may alter the sauce’s richness.
How do I customize Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up until adding the cream and storing it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just finish cooking by adding the cream and following the instructions as normal.
What sides pair well with Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken?
This dish goes wonderfully with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. A simple side salad also complements its richness nicely.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The creamy sauce holds up well when stored properly, making this recipe ideal for meal prepping during busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to impress family and friends alike. Feel free to customize ingredients according to your preferences or what you have on hand—this recipe is a canvas waiting for your culinary creativity!
Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This quick and easy recipe brings together tender chicken cutlets sautéed to golden perfection, crispy turkey bacon, and a rich, velvety sauce that elevates the flavors in every bite. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can serve a gourmet-style meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Customize it by serving over pasta, rice, or alongside fresh vegetables for a truly satisfying dining experience.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
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 Whipping Cream
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cut turkey bacon into small pieces and fry in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy (about 10 minutes). Transfer to paper towels.
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise, season with garlic powder and pepper, then dredge in flour.
- In the same skillet with remaining bacon fat, cook chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter to the skillet; reduce until thickened (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream; return chicken and bacon to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Adjust seasoning based on personal preference. Incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
