This Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. It’s not just quick and easy, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it also impresses guests with its rich taste and creamy sauce. Within just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal that features tender chicken and crispy turkey bacon in a luscious cream sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those busy evenings.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of crispy turkey bacon and creamy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Great for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings, this recipe suits various occasions.
- Healthy Twist: Using turkey bacon offers a lighter alternative while still delivering on taste.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common kitchen staples, this meal is easy to prepare without extra trips to the store.
Tools and Preparation
To make the most of your cooking experience, having the right tools at hand can streamline the process and enhance your results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Kitchen shears
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning for both the chicken and turkey bacon.
- Kitchen Shears: These are perfect for quickly cutting up turkey bacon without the mess of a knife.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the right balance of flavors in your creamy sauce.
Ingredients
This creamy Turkey Bacon chicken dish requires simple ingredients that deliver fantastic taste.
Main 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
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 and fry until crispy, about 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave approximately 2 tablespoons of fat in the pan for added flavor in later steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the bacon cooks, prep your chicken breasts by cutting them in half lengthwise to create four smaller cutlets. Sprinkle each piece with garlic powder and pepper, then coat them lightly in flour to achieve a golden crust when cooked.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the coated chicken cutlets into the same skillet with remaining turkey bacon fat over medium-high heat. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown. If there’s excessive splattering, lower the heat slightly. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Allow this mixture to bubble gently until it’s reduced by half; this should take around 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Stir in heavy cream into the reduced sauce mixture. Once it begins to bubble again, return both chicken cutlets and crispy turkey bacon back into the pan. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes or until your chicken is fully cooked through and coated in creamy sauce.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken!
How to Serve Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
Serving Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creamy texture. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that complement the savory notes of the turkey bacon and chicken.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Chives – Add snipped chives for a mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
Over Pasta
- Fettuccine – Serve the creamy sauce over fettuccine for a comforting meal.
- Penne – Toss penne pasta in the sauce for a hearty dish with great texture.
With Rice
- Steamed White Rice – A simple side that absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly.
- Wild Rice Blend – Offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture that enhances the dish.
Accompanied by Bread
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls are great for dipping into the sauce, providing a delightful experience.
How to Perfect Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
To make your Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken even more delectable, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the best flavors and textures every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Monitor Cooking Time – Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy; aim for golden brown without burning.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you cook; feel free to add more garlic powder or lemon juice to enhance flavors.
- Let It Rest – After cooking, let the chicken rest briefly before serving to retain its juices.
- Experiment with Cheese – Adding Parmesan can deepen the flavor profile of your creamy sauce.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth – This helps control sodium levels while still providing rich flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
Choosing the right sides can elevate your dining experience with Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken. Here are some wonderful options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a perfect pairing with the rich sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
- Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the savory flavors, making it an ideal summer side.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad offers a healthy grain alternative, packed with nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your creamy Turkey Bacon chicken, it’s easy to make some simple mistakes that can affect the dish. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not Prepping the Chicken Properly: Failing to cut the chicken breasts into smaller cutlets can lead to uneven cooking. Always slice them thin for even cooking and tender results.
- Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking the Turkey Bacon too long can cause it to become too crispy. Monitor it closely and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s golden brown.
- Skipping the Dredging Step: Not coating the chicken with flour can result in a less flavorful crust and a thinner sauce. Dredging helps create a delicious outer layer and thickens your creamy sauce.
- Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If you don’t let the sauce reduce properly, it may end up too watery. Allow it to bubble and thicken before adding back your chicken and bacon.
- Using Low-Quality Cream: Opting for lower-fat cream might yield a less rich flavor. For best results, use heavy or whipping cream for a truly creamy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover creamy Turkey Bacon chicken in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
- Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil to prevent drying.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about creamy Turkey Bacon chicken that may help you while preparing this delicious dish.
What can I serve with creamy Turkey Bacon chicken?
Pair this dish with steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta for a complete meal that balances flavors nicely.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon or even use pork if preferred, while ensuring proper cooking times.
How do I make creamy Turkey Bacon chicken healthier?
To lighten up this recipe, consider using skinless chicken breasts, reducing the amount of cream, or substituting with low-fat alternatives.
Can I make creamy Turkey Bacon chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything except for adding the cream and bacon ahead of time and finish cooking just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Turkey Bacon chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll appreciate its rich flavors and comforting texture!
Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Turkey Bacon Chicken is a satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with crispy turkey bacon, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both family dinners and entertaining guests. The blend of flavors is irresistible, and the use of turkey bacon provides a healthier twist without sacrificing taste. Serve it over pasta or alongside rice for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Your taste buds will thank you!
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
- 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. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving some fat in the pan.
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise, season with garlic powder and pepper, then lightly coat with flour.
- In the same skillet, cook chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from pan.
- Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter to the skillet; simmer until reduced by half (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream and return chicken and bacon to the pan; cook 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 (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Use fresh herbs for added flavor. Substitute regular bacon if you prefer. Adjust seasoning to taste during cooking.