The Dreamy One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

Preparing a delightful one pan creamy bacon chicken feels like culinary magic waiting to happen.

Hungry diners appreciate simple meals that deliver maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.

Crispy bacon and tender chicken create an irresistible combination in this straightforward recipe.

Weeknight dinners demand quick solutions that don’t compromise on taste or satisfaction.

creamy sauces can turn ordinary ingredients into something spectacular without complicated techniques.

Skilled home cooks know that smart cooking means fewer dishes and more enjoyment.

Grab your skillet and let’s make something delicious that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Variations for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

  • Keto-Friendly Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use sugar-free bacon for a low-carb alternative that maintains the rich, creamy texture.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lactose-free option that keeps the dish's original flavor profile.
  • Herb-Infused Variation: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to add depth and complexity to the sauce, creating a unique flavor experience.
  • Spicy Kick Modification: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning for those who enjoy a bit of heat, transforming the classic recipe into a zesty meal.

Serving Suggestions for Bacon Chicken Dish

  • Dinner Party Showstopper: Elegantly plate the chicken on a large platter, drizzling the creamy sauce over the top and garnishing with crispy bacon bits and bright parsley for a restaurant-quality presentation.
  • Cozy Comfort Meal: Serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes or creamy risotto, letting the rich sauce complement the side dishes and create a hearty, satisfying dinner.
  • Low-Carb Delight: Skip traditional sides and pair with roasted green vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, allowing the chicken's creamy sauce to add extra flavor to the greens.
  • Quick Weeknight Feast: Slice the chicken and toss with pasta or zucchini noodles, mixing the sauce directly into the dish for an easy one-pan meal that comes together in minutes.

How to Store Creamy Bacon Chicken

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain food safety.
  • Store the chicken and sauce together to preserve moisture and flavor.
  • Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days for best quality and taste.
  • Separate bacon topping and store it in a different container to keep its crispy texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork chops or turkey breasts. Just ensure the meat is cooked to the proper internal temperature.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

The basic recipe is gluten-free, but check your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese labels to confirm no gluten-containing ingredients are present.

  • How can I make this dish less caloric?

Reduce the heavy cream by using half-and-half or milk, and use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to lower the fat content.

  • What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute with other hard cheeses like Romano or Asiago, which will provide a similar rich, salty flavor to the sauce.

Why One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Works

  • Minimal Cleanup Magic: Prepare a delicious meal using just one pan, saving you precious time on dishwashing and kitchen tidying.
  • Speed Demon Dinner: Quickly sear chicken, create a luxurious sauce, and have a restaurant-quality dish ready in under half an hour.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combine crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy Parmesan sauce that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
  • Versatile Weeknight Winner: Perfect for busy families, date nights, or when you want a satisfying meal without complicated cooking techniques.

Ingredients for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

Protein Base:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender cuts that form the main protein of the dish.
  • Bacon: Crispy pork strips that add rich, smoky flavor to the recipe.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a deep, savory undertone to the sauce.
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Salty, nutty cheese that helps thicken and enrich the creamy sauce.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Liquid components that create a luxurious, smooth sauce base.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds a fresh, green garnish to the finished dish.

Directions for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

Step 1: Sizzle The Bacon

Start by placing bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it turns perfectly crispy and golden brown.

Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and set aside.

Step 2: Season And Sear Chicken

Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.

Using the same pan with bacon drippings, sear the chicken breasts until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust on both sides.

Step 3: Aromatics Awakening

Remove the chicken from the pan.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce Base

Pour in:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream

Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Cheese Transformation

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Return the seared chicken to the pan.

Step 6: Final Simmer

Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce reaches a luxurious, creamy consistency.

Step 7: Garnish And Serve

Crumble the reserved crispy bacon over the chicken.

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this delectable one-pan meal.

Tips for Best Creamy Bacon Chicken

  • Select thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness in the dish.
  • Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure perfect golden-brown searing.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe cooking.
  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of the sauce.
  • Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness and depth of flavor.
Print
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Quick and Tasty One Pan Bacon Chicken Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy bacon chicken delights home cooks with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup. Sizzling bacon, tender chicken, and rich sauce promise a satisfying meal you’ll want to savor again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 6 slices bacon

Dairy and Cream:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Render bacon in a spacious skillet over medium heat until perfectly crisp and golden, approximately 5-7 minutes, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry and generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Utilize the rendered bacon drippings to sear chicken, cooking 4-5 minutes per side until developing a rich, caramelized exterior.
  4. Extract chicken from the skillet and set aside, maintaining residual warmth.
  5. Reduce heat and introduce minced garlic, quickly sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 30-45 seconds.
  6. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, scraping accumulated browned bits from the pan’s surface.
  7. Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smoothly incorporated and sauce begins to slightly thicken.
  8. Carefully return seared chicken to the creamy mixture, nestling pieces to ensure even coating.
  9. Simmer uncovered for 7-10 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and sauce achieves desired consistency.
  10. Garnish with reserved crispy bacon crumbles and finely chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

Notes

  • Bacon selection matters – choose thick-cut, high-quality bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness.
  • Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure perfect golden-brown searing without excess moisture.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for even heat distribution and better sauce development.
  • Low-carb and keto-friendly by skipping any additional starchy ingredients and using full-fat cream and cheese.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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