Creamy Garlic Chicken with Bacon
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 20 minutes
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Servings: 4
Ingredients
The Chicken:
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1.5 lbs chicken breast (sliced into cutlets or strips)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil
The Sauce & Toppings:
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4–6 strips of bacon (chopped)
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1 small onion (finely diced)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
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Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
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Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, fry the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan.
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Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat. Increase heat to medium-high and sear the chicken for about 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and dried herbs. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
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Combine: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, coating it thoroughly with the sauce. Sprinkle the crispy bacon and fresh parsley over the top.
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Serve: Enjoy immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy.
Tips for Success
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For a lighter version: You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
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Extra Flavor: Add a handful of fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce during step 4 for a “Tuscan” twist.