Creamy Chicken Recipe with Crispy Bacon

The Creamy Chicken with Crispy Bacon is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will have your taste buds tingling. This recipe incorporates lager-marinated chicken with a creamy, savoury sauce, accentuated by the smoky crunch of crispy bacon. It's a hearty meal sure to impress everyone at your dinner table.

Photos of Creamy Chicken Recipe with Crispy Bacon

This recipe uses a few ingredients that might not be readily available in your pantry. These include lager, which is a type of beer that brings depth and flavour to the chicken. Worcestershire sauce, a fermented condiment with a tangy, umami flavour, is also needed. Another key ingredient is Dijon mustard, prized for its smooth texture and higher acidity. You might also need to pick up some vegetable stock powder if you don't have it on hand.

Creamy Chicken with Crispy Bacon Ingredients

Chicken breasts: This is the primary protein in this dish, marinated in lager and cooked to perfection.

Lager: Used in both the marinade and the sauce, it adds depth and a touch of bitterness.

Bacon: Provides a smoky, salty crunch that contrasts the creamy sauce.

Onion and celery: These vegetables add a depth of flavour to the sauce.

Garlic: Adds a unique aromatic note to the marinade and sauce.

Flour: Used to thicken the sauce.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.

Chicken stock: Enhances the meaty flavour of the sauce.

Worcestershire sauce: Its tangy, umami flavour elevates the sauce.

Vegetable stock powder: Adds extra depth of flavour to the sauce.

Dijon mustard: Its acidity balances the richness of the sauce.

Hot sauce: Adds a touch of heat.

Cheddar: Melts into the sauce for a rich, cheesy finish.

One reader, Hanny Mccollum says:

This creamy chicken with crispy bacon recipe is a game-changer! The chicken was so tender and flavorful, and the creamy bacon sauce was absolutely divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting and indulgent meal. I'll definitely be making this again!

Hanny Mccollum

Cooking Techniques for Creamy Chicken With Crispy Bacon

How to marinate the chicken: Combine lager, garlic, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. Add the chicken breasts, cover with plastic wrap, and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours if time allows, or overnight for a deeper flavor.

How to cook the chicken: Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Drain the chicken from the marinade and fry the breasts in a small amount of oil until golden browned on both sides and completely cooked through the center. Transfer the chicken to a warm plate.

How to cook the bacon: In the same pan, cook the bacon until crisp. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to let it drain.

How to make the creamy sauce: After cooking the bacon, add the onion and celery to the remaining bacon fat in the pan and cook until soft, about 6 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the beer and allow it to reduce slightly. Add in the flour and cook until golden, then slowly add the stock, whisking until the flour has combined with the liquid. Whisk in the milk and let it simmer, whisking occasionally until thickened. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, stock powder, mustard, and hot sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted, then stir in the crumbled bacon.

How to finish the dish: Arrange the chicken back into the pan and allow it to warm through. Garnish with chives or parsley and the remaining bacon.

How To Make Creamy Beer Cheese Chicken With Crispy Bacon

Friday night dinners can be special as well. Learn how to make this creamy chicken recipe with a sauce made flavorful and creamy by beer and cheese.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken

4largechicken breastsboneless and skinless
½cuplager(125 ml)
2tspgarlicminced
1tspsalt
peppercracked

For Sauce

150gramsbacon(diced)
2tbspbutter
1largeonion(diced)
1celery stalk(finely chopped)
4garlic cloves(minced)
2tbspflour
1 ¼cupmilk
½cuplager
½cup chicken stock
½tspWorcestershire sauce
1tspvegetable stock powder
1tspdijon mustard
Dash of hot sauce
⅔cupCheddarshredded ((add more to suit your tastes))
salt and/or pepper(to taste, if desired)

Instructions

Combine lager, garlic, salt and pepper in a shallow bowl. Add in the chicken breasts, cover with plastic wrap and allow to marinade in the refrigerator for 2 hours if time allows, or over night for a deeper flavour.
When ready to cook, take out of the fridge for at least 20 minutes before cooking. Heat skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
Drain chicken from marinade and fry breasts in a small amount of oil until golden browned on both sides and completely cooked through the centre.
Transfer chicken to a warm plate.
In the same pan, cook bacon until crisp. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to let drain.
To the remaining bacon fat in the pan, add the onion and celery, and cook until soft, about 6 minutes. Then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Pour in the beer and allow to reduce slightly.
Add in the flour and cook until golden then slowly add the stock, whisking until flour has combined with the liquid. Whisk in the milk and let simmer, whisking occasionally until thickened.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, stock powder, mustard and hot sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in cheese. Mix until cheese has melted, then stir in crumbled bacon.
Arrange chicken back into the pan and allow to warm through. Garnish with chives or parsley and the remaining bacon.

Nutrition

Calories: 1610.24kcal
Fat: 96.51g
Saturated Fat: 45.40g
Trans Fat: 2.07g
Monounsaturated Fat: 30.91g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.87g
Carbohydrates: 51.45g
Fiber: 2.12g
Sugar: 19.26g
Protein: 99.45g
Cholesterol: 345.46mg
Sodium: 3307.10mg
Calcium: 1268.41mg
Potassium: 1565.27mg
Iron: 3.62mg
Vitamin A: 570.48µg
Vitamin C: 6.13mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Creamy Chicken With Crispy Bacon

To ensure your chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). This will ensure your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat, while still remaining juicy and tender. Additionally, when making the sauce, be sure to whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming. This will result in a smooth, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the chicken and crispy bacon.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Creamy Chicken Recipe

Marinate efficiently: To save time, place the chicken and marinade ingredients in a resealable plastic bag. This allows for even coating and quick cleanup.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop, measure, and organize all ingredients before starting the cooking process to streamline the recipe execution.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Utilize pre-cooked bacon to cut down on cooking time and reduce the number of steps in the recipe.

Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, use that time to prepare the sauce ingredients and cook the bacon to maximize efficiency.

One-pan cooking: Opt for a large skillet or pan to cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in the same pan, reducing the number of dishes to clean up afterwards.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Chicken Recipe with Crispy Bacon

chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts, providing a similar texture and taste to the dish.
bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is a cured Italian meat that offers a similar salty and savory flavor to bacon, adding depth to the dish.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, providing a rich and smooth texture to the sauce.
milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the sauce, offering a dairy-free alternative.
cheddar - Substitute with gouda: Gouda cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar, providing a creamy and slightly nutty flavor to the dish.

Presenting Creamy Chicken With Crispy Bacon

Elevate the chicken: Carefully slice the chicken breasts into elegant portions and arrange them on the plate with precision and finesse.
Garnish with crispy bacon: Place the crispy bacon crumbles strategically around the chicken, adding a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.
Drizzle with creamy sauce: Using a spoon, elegantly drizzle the creamy sauce over the chicken, ensuring each portion is generously coated without overwhelming the visual appeal.
Add a touch of green: Sprinkle a few microgreens or finely chopped herbs on top of the dish to introduce a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Plate with attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the plate to remove any smudges or spills, ensuring a clean and polished presentation that reflects the sophistication of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Skillet or pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Paper towels: Absorbent paper used to drain excess oil or liquid from cooked foods.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.
Plastic wrap: A thin plastic film used to cover and protect food during storage.
Shallow bowl: A wide and shallow dish used for marinating, mixing, or serving food.
Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing ingredients or holding prepared foods.
Skillet or pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Tips for This Creamy Chicken Recipe

Allow the creamy chicken with crispy bacon to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled dish into an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the dish, follow these steps:
1. Divide the chicken and sauce into individual portions or freeze them together in a freezer-safe container.
2. If freezing individual portions, wrap each piece of chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
3. Place the wrapped chicken pieces into a freezer bag or airtight container.
4. Pour the cooled sauce into a separate freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
5. Label the containers or bags with the dish name and date of freezing.
6. Place the containers or bags in the freezer, ensuring they lie flat for even freezing.
Frozen creamy chicken with crispy bacon can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the chicken and sauce overnight in the refrigerator.
Place the thawed chicken in a baking dish and pour the sauce over it.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
For best results, prepare fresh bacon to top the reheated dish for a crispy texture.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Creamy Chicken

To reheat leftover creamy chicken with crispy bacon, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the dish is heated evenly throughout.
Place the leftover chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish. If the sauce has thickened up too much in the refrigerator, you can add a splash of chicken stock or milk to help loosen it up.
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. The foil will help prevent the chicken from drying out while it reheats.
If you prefer a crispier texture on top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating. This will allow the cheese and bacon to crisp up slightly.
Alternatively, you can reheat the dish on the stovetop. Place the leftover chicken and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is simmering. If the sauce is too thick, add a little chicken stock or milk to thin it out.
For a quick and easy option, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the chicken and sauce on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and the sauce to separate.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to reheat the dish until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it's safe to eat.
Once reheated, garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten up the flavors and add a pop of color.

Interesting Trivia About Creamy Chicken With Crispy Bacon

The creamy chicken with crispy bacon recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful sauce. It's a perfect meal for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones. This dish is a great way to elevate your dinner game and impress your guests with its creamy and indulgent flavors. Plus, the combination of bacon and chicken is a classic and irresistible pairing that is sure to please any palate. So, next time you're looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, give this creamy chicken with crispy bacon recipe a try!

Is Making This Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy chicken with crispy bacon recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken breasts and bacon may increase the cost, but the dish's rich and satisfying flavors make it worth the investment. The incorporation of onions, celery, and garlic adds depth without significantly impacting the budget. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, earning this recipe a solid 8/10 for its balance of cost and flavor.

Is This Creamy Chicken Dish Healthy or Not?

The creamy chicken with crispy bacon recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

High saturated fat content from the bacon, butter, and cheddar cheese
Generous use of salt in the marinade, stock powder, and added seasonings
Refined flour used as a thickening agent in the sauce
Minimal vegetable content, with only onion and celery included

However, the recipe does incorporate some healthier elements, such as lean chicken breast and the use of milk instead of heavy cream in the sauce.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on flavor, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of bacon or opt for a leaner, turkey-based alternative
Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing
Replace half of the milk with low-sodium chicken stock to reduce the overall fat content
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as mushrooms, carrots, or spinach, to increase the nutrient density
Swap refined flour for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like chickpea flour
Decrease the amount of cheddar cheese or choose a lower-fat variety
Serve the creamy chicken with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal

By implementing these changes, you can transform this indulgent recipe into a more balanced and nutritious dish that still satisfies your cravings for comfort food.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Chicken Dish

The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy, flavorful sauce makes this recipe a winner. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors, while the bacon adds a delightful crunch. The creamy sauce, with its blend of beer, cheese, and spices, elevates the dish to a new level of indulgence. The balance of flavors and textures creates a truly satisfying meal that is sure to impress. This recipe is a perfect example of comfort food with a gourmet twist.

Enhance Your Creamy Chicken Recipe with Crispy Bacon with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and parmesan cheese

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze

Garlic Bread: Homemade garlic bread with a crispy crust and soft, buttery center

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing and a sprinkle of mint leaves

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Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp: These succulent shrimp are marinated in a zesty lemon garlic sauce and then quickly grilled to perfection. They make for a light and refreshing meal that's bursting with flavor.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and luxurious mushroom risotto that's cooked to perfection. Each bite is filled with rich, earthy flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Creamy Chicken with Crispy Bacon

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Indulge in these crispy zucchini fritters, a delightful combination of shredded zucchini, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Served with a side of tangy dipping sauce, these fritters are sure to impress.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This luxurious dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.

Tangy Lemon Tart: Savor the zesty and refreshing flavors of a tangy lemon tart, with a buttery and flaky crust that perfectly complements the tartness of the lemon filling. This dessert is a delightful way to end any meal on a bright and citrusy note.

Why trust this Creamy Chicken Recipe with Crispy Bacon:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of creamy sauce and crispy bacon that will elevate your chicken dish to new heights. The marinade infuses the chicken breasts with flavor, while the creamy sauce, enriched with cheddar cheese and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, creates a luscious texture. The addition of celery and onion adds depth, and the crispy bacon provides a satisfying crunch. Trust this recipe to deliver a comforting and indulgent chicken dish that will surely impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Creamy Chicken Recipe with Crispy Bacon in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this dish even more delicious!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken for?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator, but if you have the time, marinating it overnight will give it a deeper flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Gouda, Swiss, or even a combination of different cheeses can work well in this recipe.

Can I substitute the beer with something else?

If you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute it with chicken broth or even apple cider for a slightly different flavor profile.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

You can check the doneness of the chicken by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time. When you're ready to serve, simply cook the chicken, reheat the sauce, and assemble the dish.