Description
Are you craving a dish that’s both sweet and savory, with a creamy texture and a touch of crunch? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken With Crispy Bacon. Combining tender chicken breasts with a luscious honey mustard sauce and crispy bacon, this dish is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress.
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup honey
- 3 level tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic (or 3–4 cloves crushed garlic)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to season
- 5 skinless and boneless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- ½ cup diced bacon, trimmed of rind and fat
- ⅓ cup cream (light or reduced fat)
- 1 cup milk (skim, 2% or full fat – almond milk may be used for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (corn flour) mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a large, shallow dish, combine the honey, mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt to taste. Coat the chicken evenly in the sauce and set aside to marinate.
- Cook the Bacon: Heat a nonstick pan or skillet over medium heat. Fry the diced bacon until crispy, then transfer it to a plate and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: In the same pan with the leftover oil from the bacon, sear the chicken breasts on each side until they begin to brown, about 3 minutes per side. The chicken doesn’t need to be completely cooked through at this stage.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Add any remaining honey mustard sauce from the dish into the pan along with the cream and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour the cornstarch mixture into the center of the pan, stirring it through the sauce until it thickens slightly. Return the chicken to the pan, coating it with the sauce.
- Assemble and Serve: Top the chicken with the crispy bacon and chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot over steamed or roasted vegetables, pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Serve Immediately: Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with Crispy Bacon is best served immediately after cooking to enjoy the optimal flavors and textures.
- Garnish Before Serving: Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes such as steamed or roasted vegetables, pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Choose your favorite accompaniment to complete the meal.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.
- Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy nature of the sauce, it is not recommended to freeze Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with Crispy Bacon as it may alter the texture upon thawing and reheating.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the honey mustard sauce and marinate the chicken in advance. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until ready to cook, then follow the remaining steps for a quick and easy meal.
- Portion Control: When serving, use a sharp knife to cut the chicken into individual portions. This helps control serving sizes and ensures each serving gets an equal amount of sauce and bacon.
- Creative Leftovers: If you have leftover chicken, consider slicing it and using it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a delicious lunch option the next day.
- Refrigerate Properly: Store any leftover bacon separately from the chicken to maintain its crispiness. Place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag and refrigerate.
- Enjoy Freshness: Enjoy the Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with Crispy Bacon while it’s fresh and hot for the most enjoyable dining experience. Share this delightful dish with family and friends and savor every delicious bite!
