Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

This creamy Turkey Bacon chicken recipe is a decadent and delicious dinner that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. With its rich, creamy sauce and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you still want something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon and creamy sauce creates a deliciously indulgent meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe suits various occasions effortlessly.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps mean you don’t need to be a culinary expert to impress your diners.
• Comforting Meal: The creamy texture combined with crispy turkey bacon offers a warm, satisfying dish for any comfort food lover.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the ingredients, let’s gather the essential tools needed for making this creamy Turkey Bacon chicken. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Kitchen shears
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Paper towels
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet helps achieve an even cook on your chicken and allows for delicious browning.
• Kitchen shears: These are perfect for quickly cutting turkey bacon without the fuss of using a knife.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your dish has the right balance of flavors.
• Paper towels: Great for draining excess fat from the turkey bacon, keeping your dish lighter.

Ingredients

For the Sauce and Chicken

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

For the Creamy Mixture

• 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 using kitchen shears. Add it to a skillet over medium-high heat and cook until crispy, which takes about 10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain excess fat. Keep about 2 tablespoons of fat in the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet with remaining turkey bacon fat, add the chicken cutlets. Cook them over medium-high heat for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. If splattering occurs, reduce heat as needed. Once browned, set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

To the skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Allow this mixture to bubble until it’s reduced by half; this should take around 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in heavy cream and let it bubble slightly before adding back in your cooked chicken along with crispy turkey bacon. Simmer everything together for another five minutes or until chicken is fully cooked through and sauce reaches desired consistency.

Now you have a delightful creamy Turkey Bacon chicken ready to serve! Enjoy this comforting meal with your favorite side dishes.

How to Serve Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• A light, refreshing salad pairs perfectly with the rich creaminess of the dish. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette for balance.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent base for this dish. The smooth texture complements the sauce, making each bite a delight.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrients to your plate. This option is healthy and enhances the flavors of the creamy sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy every drop of the creamy goodness.

On a Bed of Rice

• Fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, making it a filling choice that rounds out your meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Cooking this creamy dish can be straightforward, but a few tips can help you achieve perfection.

• Use Proper Heat: Start cooking on medium-high heat for browning but adjust as necessary to avoid burning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give enough space for chicken pieces to cook evenly without steaming.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Ensure chicken is cooked through but not overdone; check with a meat thermometer (165°F).
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; you might want to add more pepper or lemon juice for brightness.
• Thicken Sauce Wisely: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding cream.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic side that adds crunch and flavor; perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potatoes complement the creamy chicken well.
3. Quinoa Salad
   A nutritious alternative that offers protein and a nutty flavor; try adding cucumbers and feta for extra taste.
4. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and tartness, balancing the richness of the chicken dish.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brings a summery touch; serve it brushed with butter and herbs for added flavor.
6. Sautéed Spinach
   This quick-cooking green is packed with nutrients and adds vibrant color to your plate.
7. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles offer a fresh alternative that’s light yet satisfying when topped with creamy sauce.
8. Mediterranean Couscous
   Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs makes for an aromatic side that pairs beautifully with turkey bacon chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Skipping the dredging step: Not coating the chicken with flour can lead to uneven cooking and a lack of sauce thickness. Always dredge your chicken for better texture.
• Overcooking the turkey bacon: Cooking turkey bacon too long can make it overly crispy and tough. Fry it just until it’s crispy, then remove it from the pan.
• Not properly seasoning: Failing to season your chicken adequately may result in bland flavor. Use garlic powder and pepper generously to enhance taste.
• Ignoring cooking times: Each stove varies, and not monitoring cooking times can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks for perfectly juicy results.
• Adding cream too early: Pouring in the cream before reducing the broth can prevent proper sauce consistency. Always reduce your broth first for a richer flavor.
• Neglecting to stir frequently: Not stirring the sauce while it simmers can cause uneven cooking or burning at the bottom. Stir regularly for a creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute turkey bacon with chicken bacon or even use diced chicken thighs instead of breasts for added flavor.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

What can I serve with Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken?

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

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is a delightful recipe that strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and sophistication. With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, it’s suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste!