Bacon and Cheese Smothered Chicken – A Comfort Food Classic

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  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F / 75°C). Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream.
  2. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble & Smother the Chicken

  1. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
  2. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
  3. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
  2. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

  • Low-carb option: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts or cauliflower mash.
  • Classic comfort: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and buttery green beans.
  • Lighter side: Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed broccoli.

Storage & Reheating:

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.

Variants & Customization

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
  • Mushroom Lovers: Sauté mushrooms before adding the cream for an earthy twist.
  • Extra Crunch: Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top before serving.
  • BBQ Flavor: Mix in 1 tbsp of barbecue sauce to the cheese sauce for a smoky touch.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great—just adjust the cooking time since they may cook faster.

2. What’s the best cheese for melting?

Cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all melt beautifully. Feel free to mix and match!

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

4. How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overcooking! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) but no higher.

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