Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This chicken, bacon, and mushroom recipe is a perfect example of a quick, easy, and healthy meal that's bursting with deliciousness. It's the kind of homemade cooking that will impress your family and friends, making it a staple in your weekly meal rotation. This recipe is a fantastic option for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, especially if you're short on time but don't want to compromise on taste. Consider it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet. Set the cooked bacon aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon grease. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Add the thyme and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Stir in the cooked bacon. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Make it a one-pan meal: Roast the chicken, bacon, and vegetables on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This chicken, bacon, and mushroom recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a busy weeknight. Enjoy this simple yet impressive dish – a true testament to the power of easy recipes and homemade cooking! It's a surefire way to elevate your dinner routine and become a go-to recipe for delicious dishes.