Description Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Bacon Butter Chicken Skillet recipe. Tender chicken pieces are cooked to golden perfection in a luscious bacon butter sauce, infused with garlic and savory flavors. This one-pan dish is incredibly easy to make and delivers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Preparation:
Before you embark on this culinary adventure, a little preparation goes a long way. The goal is to streamline the cooking process so you can enjoy a seamless experience. First, ensure your chicken is properly prepped. Pat the chicken chunks dry with a paper towel to encourage browning when they hit the hot skillet. Season them lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper, which will begin drawing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Next, prep your bacon. Chop the bacon into small, uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness when rendered in the skillet. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Freshly minced garlic is far superior in flavor to pre-minced options, and it releases its pungent aroma beautifully when cooked in the bacon butter.
Finally, measure out all your ingredients and keep them within arm’s reach. This mise en place (everything in its place) technique is a staple in professional kitchens, and it will help you stay organized and efficient as you cook.
Instructions:
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Place the chopped bacon in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the bacon to render its fat slowly and evenly. Cook the bacon until it is crispy and golden brown. This step is crucial because the rendered bacon fat will form the base of our flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Remove Bacon and Reserve Fat
Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to carefully remove it from the skillet. Transfer the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess grease. Set the bacon aside – we’ll add it back into the dish later. Keep the rendered bacon fat in the skillet, as this will be our cooking medium.
Step 3: Add Butter and Increase Heat
To the skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Increase the heat to medium-high, allowing the butter to melt completely. The combination of bacon fat and butter creates a rich and decadent base that elevates the flavors of the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken chunks to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring that each piece has enough space to brown properly. Season the chicken with the remaining salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking the chicken in batches, if necessary, prevents overcrowding the pan and ensures even browning.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Sauté
Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter and ruin the flavor of the dish. The garlic adds a pungent and aromatic dimension to the bacon butter sauce.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the reserved crispy bacon. The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a touch of freshness and color. Serve immediately while hot.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Bacon Butter Chicken Skillet is a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined to create an extraordinary dish. The combination of crispy bacon, rich butter, and savory garlic creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
The recipe is also highly adaptable. You can use chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Chicken thighs will yield a more tender and succulent result due to their higher fat content. The addition of bacon not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful texture contrast.
Beyond its simplicity and flavor, this recipe is incredibly comforting. It’s the kind of dish that evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, and the first bite will have you hooked.
COOKING Rating
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This Bacon Butter Chicken Skillet is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or wild rice to soak up the delicious bacon butter sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment that complements the richness of the chicken and bacon.
- Steamed Vegetables: Balance the richness of the dish with steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or spinach.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice.
- Pasta: Toss the chicken and sauce with your favorite pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips:
- Use High-Quality Bacon: The quality of the bacon will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Opt for thick-cut bacon for a more robust flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches, if necessary, to ensure even browning.
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter and ruin the flavor of the dish. Cook over medium heat and stir constantly until fragrant.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or garlic powder to suit your preferences.
- Add a Touch of Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the garlic.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 500-700mg
Conclusion
The Bacon Butter Chicken Skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about the joy of creating something delicious and satisfying with minimal effort. This dish is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients, when combined with love and care, can create culinary magic. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and stay more moist during cooking due to their higher fat content. Just make sure to trim any excess fat before cutting them into chunks.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time. You can chop the bacon and mince the garlic in advance. However, I recommend cooking the chicken and assembling the dish just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
- What if I don’t have bacon fat on hand? The bacon fat adds a unique flavor to the dish, but if you don’t have enough rendered from the bacon, you can substitute it with additional butter or olive oil. Keep in mind that the flavor profile might be slightly different without the bacon fat.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish? Definitely! Adding vegetables to this skillet is a great way to make it a more complete meal. Some good options include sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini. Add them to the skillet along with the garlic and sauté until tender.
- How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help keep the chicken moist during reheating.
