Name: Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp Italian Seasoning; salt and pepper; For Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Sauce:; 1 tbsp olive oil; 8 oz white mushrooms; 6 slices Bacon; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme

Indulge in a delightful combination of flavors with this creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken recipe. Juicy chicken thighs are pan-seared to perfection and then baked, creating a deliciously rich sauce enhanced with the earthy taste of mushrooms, the smoky flavor of bacon, and the aromatic touch of fresh thyme. This dish is both comforting and elegant, making it ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Photos of Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are fairly common, fresh thyme and heavy cream might not be pantry staples for everyone. Fresh thyme adds a unique, fragrant herbal note that dried thyme can't quite replicate. Heavy cream is essential for achieving the creamy texture of the sauce. Ensure you have these on your shopping list when heading to the supermarket.

Ingredients For Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken

Chicken thighs: Adds a rich, flavorful base to the dish and remains juicy during cooking.

Olive oil: Used for pan-searing the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms, adding a subtle richness.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.

Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a slight kick and depth to the dish.

White mushrooms: Provide an earthy flavor and hearty texture to the sauce.

Bacon: Gives a smoky, savory element that complements the creamy sauce.

Heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety texture in the sauce.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor without the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh garlic.

Fresh thyme: Infuses the dish with a fresh, aromatic herbal note.

One reader, Arabele Pride says:

This creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, and the sauce is rich and delicious. The chicken is tender and juicy. It's an easy yet impressive dish that will definitely be a regular in my meal rotation. Highly recommend!

Arabele Pride

Mastering the Techniques Behind This Creamy Chicken Recipe

How to pan-sear chicken: Heat a skillet to medium-high heat, add seasoned chicken thighs, and cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes until browned. How to sauté mushrooms: Add olive oil to the skillet and cook mushrooms until they are soft. How to bring sauce to a simmer: Combine ingredients in the skillet and heat until the sauce starts to thicken.

How To Make Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken

This Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken is a dish loaded with tender-cooked chicken in a creamy and well-spiced sauce with crisp bacon and mushrooms.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4chicken thighs,bone-in, or boneless chicken thighs or breasts
1tbspolive oil
2tspItalian seasoning
salt and pepper

For Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Sauce:

1tbspolive oil
8ozwhite mushrooms,sliced
6slicesbacon,cooked, crumbled
1cupheavy cream
½tspsalt
¼tsppepper
1tspgarlic powder
1tbspfresh thyme,stems removed

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Heat a large skillet to medium-high heat.
Add the chicken thighs and season with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
Pan-sear each side of the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes until brown, and place the skillet in the oven.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked throughout.
Set chicken aside on a plate.
Add olive oil to the skillet and sauté the mushrooms until soft.
Add the bacon, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
Bring to a simmer until the sauce starts to thicken.
Add the chicken back to the skillet and heat for another 1 minute.
Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 893.08kcal
Fat: 78.37g
Saturated Fat: 29.22g
Trans Fat: 0.22g
Monounsaturated Fat: 32.28g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.14g
Carbohydrates: 6.39g
Fiber: 1.23g
Sugar: 3.25g
Protein: 40.68g
Cholesterol: 299.37mg
Sodium: 843.20mg
Calcium: 74.47mg
Potassium: 738.74mg
Iron: 2.72mg
Vitamin A: 296.44µg
Vitamin C: 2.77mg

Elevate Your Cooking Skills With This Technique Tip

When pan-searing the chicken, make sure the skillet is hot enough to create a nice golden-brown crust. This not only locks in the juices but also adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even browning.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing This Delicious Meal

Pre-cook the bacon: Cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly add it to the sauce without waiting for it to cook.

Use pre-sliced mushrooms: Save time by buying pre-sliced mushrooms from the store. This eliminates the need for slicing and speeds up the cooking process.

Season chicken in advance: Season the chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper the night before. This allows the flavors to penetrate and reduces prep time.

Simmer sauce while baking: Start making the creamy bacon mushroom thyme sauce while the chicken is baking. This way, both components are ready at the same time.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken Recipe

Chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are leaner and will cook faster, but they may be less juicy than thighs.
Olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a similar smoke point, making it a good alternative for cooking.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence offers a similar blend of herbs and can provide a comparable flavor profile.
Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor, often used in creamy sauces.
White mushrooms - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms have a similar texture and a slightly deeper flavor, making them a good substitute.
Bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is an Italian cured meat that offers a similar salty and savory flavor to bacon.
Heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a rich and creamy texture, though it will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish.
Garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more intense and aromatic flavor, but use it in moderation to avoid overpowering the dish.
Fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used in place of fresh thyme, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Elevate Your Dinner Presentation With These Tips

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present a single chicken thigh per plate to maintain elegance and focus on quality over quantity.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh thyme and a few slices of sautéed mushrooms for visual appeal.
Create height: Stack the chicken thigh on top of a bed of mushrooms and bacon to add dimension to the dish.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the creamy bacon mushroom thyme sauce artistically around the chicken, ensuring it doesn’t flood the plate but enhances the visual appeal.
Color contrast: Add a pop of color with a small side of lightly blanched green beans or a few cherry tomatoes to contrast with the creamy sauce and golden chicken.
Use a clean plate: Ensure the plate is spotless before serving, as presentation is key in a Michelin-star setting.
Final touch: Finish with a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a few flakes of sea salt to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken

Oven: Used to bake the chicken thighs to ensure they are cooked throughout.
Large skillet: Essential for pan-searing the chicken and later for making the creamy bacon mushroom thyme sauce.
Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken thighs while searing and for placing them back into the skillet.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh thyme accurately.
Plate: Needed to set the chicken aside after baking.
Wooden spoon: Useful for sautéing the mushrooms and stirring the sauce.
Knife: Required for cutting the bacon into pieces.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the bacon.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the heavy cream.
Stove: Needed to heat the skillet to medium-high heat for searing the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms.
Spatula: Useful for scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all the flavors into the sauce.

Preserving Perfection: Storing and Freezing Your Creamy Chicken Dish

Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
The frozen chicken dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
Transfer the thawed chicken to a skillet or baking dish and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it is heated through and the sauce is bubbling, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth to thin it out and restore its creamy texture.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating and prevent overheating.
Note: The sauce may separate slightly upon reheating, but stirring it well will help to restore its consistency.
Enjoy your reheated creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

How To Reheat Leftovers for Maximum Flavor

The best way to reheat leftover creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the chicken from drying out and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
Another option is to reheat the chicken on the stovetop. Place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and prevent the cream sauce from separating or burning.
If you're short on time, you can also use the microwave to reheat your leftover chicken. Place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be sure to stir the sauce and check the temperature of the chicken before serving.
For a crispy texture, you can reheat the chicken under the broiler. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is crispy and the chicken is heated through. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.
If you have leftover bacon, you can crumble it and sprinkle it over the top of the reheated chicken for added flavor and texture.
To prevent the cream sauce from separating or curdling during reheating, be sure to reheat the chicken over low heat and stir the sauce frequently.
If the sauce seems too thick after reheating, you can thin it out with a little chicken broth or heavy cream.
Leftover creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken can also be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a delicious and easy lunch.

Surprising Trivia About Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken

A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of bacon, mushrooms, and thyme creates a rich umami flavor profile. This blend of ingredients not only enhances the taste but also adds a depth of savory notes, making the dish both comforting and gourmet.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This Recipe Economical?

This creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken thighs, bacon, and mushrooms, are affordable and widely available. The use of heavy cream and fresh thyme adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, this dish offers a gourmet experience at a reasonable price. Overall Verdict: 8/10 Approximate Cost: $15-$20 USD for a household of 4 people.

Is This Creamy Chicken Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe relies heavily on high-fat ingredients like chicken thighs, bacon, and heavy cream, which can contribute to excessive saturated fat intake.
The use of salt, both in seasoning the chicken and in the sauce, may lead to high sodium levels.
The recipe lacks a significant source of fiber, as it does not include any vegetables or whole grains.

However, with a few tweaks, this dish can be made more nutritious without sacrificing flavor:

Swap chicken thighs for skinless, boneless chicken breasts to reduce the overall fat content.
Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, as it typically contains less saturated fat.
Replace half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or yogurt to maintain creaminess while cutting down on calories and fat.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as spinach, kale, or zucchini, to increase fiber and nutrient intake.
Reduce the amount of added salt and rely more on herbs and spices for flavor.
Serve the chicken alongside a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice to add fiber and complex carbohydrates.
Use olive oil spray instead of tablespoons of oil to minimize added fat.

By making these adjustments, you can transform this indulgent recipe into a more balanced and nourishing meal that still satisfies your cravings for creamy, savory flavors.

Editor's Take: Why This Creamy Chicken Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors with its creamy bacon mushroom thyme sauce. The use of chicken thighs ensures a juicy and flavorful base, while the Italian seasoning adds a nice herbal touch. Pan-searing the chicken before baking locks in the moisture and enhances the texture. The sauce, enriched with heavy cream and fresh thyme, provides a luxurious finish. However, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the skillet for added depth. Overall, it's a comforting and satisfying dish that's sure to impress.

Enhance Your Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Imagine a velvety bed of potatoes infused with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. This creamy delight will perfectly complement the savory notes of the bacon and mushrooms in your main dish, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors on your plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Picture crispy brussels sprouts roasted to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts paired with the sweet and sour glaze will add a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of your chicken dish.

Butternut Squash Risotto: Envision a creamy risotto made with tender butternut squash that melts in your mouth. The subtle sweetness of the squash and the creamy texture of the risotto will enhance the luxurious feel of your creamy bacon mushroom thyme chicken.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: Think of a vibrant salad featuring tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and crisp greens. This refreshing side will provide a burst of color and a delightful crunch, balancing the richness of your main course.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Visualize tender carrots glazed with a sweet honey coating, adding a touch of natural sweetness to your meal. The caramelized edges and the soft interior of the carrots will offer a delightful contrast to the savory chicken and bacon.

Discover Tasty Alternatives to Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Imagine tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, complemented by the earthy flavors of spinach and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus: Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty lemon herb chicken paired with crisp asparagus. The citrusy notes of lemon and the aromatic herbs create a refreshing and delightful meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of garlic parmesan sauce enveloping succulent chicken breasts. This dish is a comforting classic that combines the sharpness of parmesan with the smoothness of cream, making it an irresistible treat.

Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Vegetables: Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of honey mustard glazed chicken thighs, accompanied by a medley of roasted vegetables. This dish is a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a delightful and wholesome meal.

Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms: Transport yourself to Italy with this classic chicken marsala featuring tender chicken breasts and savory mushrooms in a rich marsala wine sauce. This elegant dish is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

Impress Your Guests: Appetizers and Desserts to Serve With This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. The earthy mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. A touch of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a satisfying crunch and a rich, cheesy interior.

Caprese Skewers: Bring a taste of Italy to your table with Caprese Skewers. These vibrant skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves. Drizzled with a balsamic glaze, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Easy to assemble and visually appealing, these skewers are a refreshing and elegant start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent treat that combines a rich, molten center with a perfectly baked exterior. Imagine cutting into a warm, delicate cake to reveal a flowing river of chocolate goodness. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence. The contrast between the warm, gooey center and the cool, creamy topping creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave your guests in awe.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Lemon Meringue Pie offers a delightful balance of tart and sweet, making it a refreshing end to any meal. The lemon curd filling is both zesty and smooth, providing a burst of citrus flavor with every bite. Topped with a cloud of meringue, this pie is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The meringue is lightly toasted to perfection, adding a hint of caramelized sweetness that complements the tangy lemon filling beautifully. Serve it chilled for a refreshing contrast to your main course.

Why trust this Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of bacon, mushrooms, and thyme to create a mouthwatering dish. The chicken thighs are pan-seared to perfection and then baked, ensuring they are juicy and tender. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and seasoned with garlic powder, adds a luxurious touch. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Trust this recipe for its balanced flavors and straightforward instructions.

Share your tips and tricks for making this Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Chicken in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's discuss!

FAQ:

How can I tell if the chicken thighs are fully cooked?

I usually check if the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F using a meat thermometer. If you don't have one, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the thigh.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts might cook a bit faster, so check them a few minutes earlier to avoid overcooking.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce might be a bit less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well too.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Just prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then store them in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, reheat the sauce and add the chicken back in to warm it up.

What should I serve with this dish?

I love serving this creamy chicken with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta. A side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad also pairs nicely.