Creamy Garlic Chicken with Bacon

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Bacon

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
   • In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
   • Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.
   • Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
   • Stir in the dried Italian herbs if using.
5. Combine and Simmer:
   • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
   • Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors and heat through.
   • Sprinkle the crispy bacon on top of the chicken.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve the chicken with the creamy sauce spooned over it.

Serving Suggestions:

• This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the chicken broth.
• If the sauce thickens too much, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or cream.

This Creamy Garlic Chicken with Bacon is a decadent and satisfying meal that is sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking!