Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Skillet Cooking · Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Quick Answer
This Creamy Balsamic Mushroom Bacon Chicken is a comforting dish that's quick to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings.
If there's one dish that perfectly captures the heart of autumn for me, it's my Creamy Balsamic Mushroom Bacon Chicken. As the leaves flutter down in New York City, a chill fills the air, signaling the onset of cozy gatherings and the joy of cooking for loved ones. With Thanksgiving and Christmas looming, this dish not only brings warmth but also the kind of rich flavors that leave an impression-perfect for your upcoming holiday festivities.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy flavors that evoke the warmth of autumn.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings and impressing your guests.
- Simple ingredients transform into an unforgettable meal.
- Comforting and satisfying, ideal for cool evenings.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to create this delightful dish:
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Bacon and Mushrooms
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (I love using cremini for their deeper flavor)
Sauce Ingredients
- ½ cup of balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
- Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Creamy Balsamic Mushroom Bacon Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create this rich and comforting dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This allows the seasoning to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Step 2: Sauté the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp. The aroma will fill your kitchen. Once crispy, remove the bacon, crumble it, and leave the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add the chicken breasts, searing them on both sides until golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and then transfer them to a plate.
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes, soaking up that delicious bacon fat.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in the balsamic vinegar, scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the vinegar to reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes before stirring in the heavy cream and minced garlic. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes, and then return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Garnish with the crumbled bacon and fresh thyme, if using. Serve this dish over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables to soak up that flavorful sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Don't rush this dish; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not Letting the Vinegar Reduce: Skipping this step can leave your sauce tasting too sharp. Let it reduce to develop deeper flavors.
- Moving the Chicken Too Soon: Resist the urge to flip the chicken too early. Ensure a nice golden crust by allowing it to sear properly before turning.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Invest in a high-quality balsamic vinegar for a smoother and sweeter flavor profile.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water before adding the cream.
- This dish can be prepped ahead of time and reheated gently, making it perfect for hosting those holiday meals.
Variations
- Substitute the chicken with turkey for a festive twist.
- Use button mushrooms instead of cremini for a milder flavor.
- Try adding spinach for extra greens and nutrients.
- Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
How to Serve
- Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
- Pair with roasted vegetables to soak up the sauce.
- Enjoy with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepped ahead of time and reheated gently, making it perfect for hosting those holiday meals.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the cream may change upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Every time I make this Creamy Balsamic Mushroom Bacon Chicken, I'm reminded how the simplest of ingredients can create a symphony of flavors that feels extravagant. It's a testament to the fact that with a little patience and love, any meal can become a celebration at the dinner table.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 30g protein · 8g carbs · 34g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Balsamic Mushroom Bacon Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and crumble, leaving the fat in the skillet.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and sear on both sides until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté the mushrooms in the skillet until soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add balsamic vinegar and reduce for 2-3 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and garlic, simmer for another 3-4 minutes, then return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece.
- Garnish with crumbled bacon and thyme, if using. Serve over mashed potatoes or with roasted vegetables!
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even pork chops for a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What type of mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Cremini mushrooms are recommended for their deeper flavor, but you can also use button or shiitake mushrooms if preferred.
3. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! You can use light cream or half-and-half, and turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to reduce the calorie count.
4. Can this dish be frozen?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw and reheat gently.
5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water before stirring in the cream.
