Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs with Bacon & Mushrooms
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 slices bacon, chopped
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prep the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper.
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving bacon grease in the pan.
Sear the chicken: Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Sauté mushrooms & garlic: Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Make the creamy sauce: Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the skillet. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, thyme, and cooked bacon. Stir well and let simmer.
Combine & bake: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Spoon sauce over them and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
Serve: Garnish with extra thyme and serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your chicken thighs are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a crispy, golden-brown sear. Season generously on both sides. When cooking the bacon, render the fat slowly over medium heat to avoid burning. After removing the bacon, increase the heat slightly to medium-high before adding the chicken, ensuring the skin makes immediate contact with the hot skillet. Do not move the chicken for the first 5-7 minutes to develop a proper crust. When sautéing the mushrooms, let them release their moisture and brown before adding the garlic to prevent it from scorching. For the sauce, deglaze the pan thoroughly with chicken broth, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits (fond). Let the cream sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly before returning the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the luxurious sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles are classic choices. For a lighter option, try cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. A simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. Crusty bread, like a baguette or focaccia, is non-negotiable for mopping up every last drop of sauce from the plate.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-skillet meal involves searing seasoned chicken thighs, then using the rendered fat to cook bacon and mushrooms. A creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce is built in the same pan, and the chicken is simmered in it until cooked through. The key steps are: sear, sauté, deglaze, simmer, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts will cook faster and can dry out. Reduce the final simmering time to 10-12 minutes and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F internally.
How can I make this dish less heavy? Substitute half the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or use whole milk thickened with a tablespoon of flour added with the mushrooms. The sauce will be lighter but still creamy.
My sauce is too thin. How do I thicken it? Create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can cook the bacon, sear the chicken, and make the sauce base ahead. Store components separately. Reheat the sauce gently, add the chicken, and simmer until heated through before serving.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not drying the chicken: This prevents proper browning and leads to steaming.
- Crowding the skillet: Sear chicken in batches if necessary to avoid dropping the pan’s temperature.
- Burning the garlic: Add it last when sautéing and cook only for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- Boiling the cream sauce: After adding the cream, maintain a gentle simmer. A rolling boil can cause the sauce to separate or become greasy.
- Underseasoning: Season each layer—the chicken, the mushrooms, and the sauce—for a deeply flavorful dish.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Chicken with Bacon and Mushrooms is the epitome of a satisfying, restaurant-quality comfort meal made easily at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a decadent, one-pan dinner that is sure to impress. The combination of crispy chicken, smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce is simply irresistible. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!