My introduction to Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken came on a particularly chilly evening when the desire for something comforting and savory was undeniable. After a long day, the idea of coming home to a meal that had been effortlessly prepared throughout the day was incredibly appealing. This recipe, with its blend of simple ingredients and the magic of a slow cooker, turned out to be a game-changer. The result was a creamy, dreamy chicken dish that seemed to melt in our mouths, with the crispy bacon adding an unexpected yet delightful crunch.
Here’s how you can create this dish in your own kitchen, bringing the same warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 slices bacon
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
½ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These seasonings will infuse the chicken with flavor, ensuring it remains juicy and aromatic throughout the cooking process. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker, placing them snugly but without crowding. This setup allows the flavors to meld together beautifully during cooking.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they become crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the bacon is perfectly crisped, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain and cool. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. The bacon not only adds a savory, smoky flavor to the dish but also provides a satisfying crunch.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Utilize the leftover bacon grease in the skillet to add an extra layer of flavor. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté it until it becomes translucent and soft, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic will fill your kitchen with an inviting scent, setting the stage for the creamy sauce.
Spoon this aromatic mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. The onions and garlic will continue to infuse their flavors into the chicken as it cooks.
4. Deglaze the Skillet
Pour the chicken broth into the same skillet used for cooking the bacon and sautéing the onions and garlic. As you pour, use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. These flavorful bits are essential for enhancing the overall taste of your dish. Once the skillet is deglazed, pour the broth mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
5. Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process will render the chicken incredibly tender, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the bacon, onions, and garlic. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as this can affect the cooking time and temperature.
6. Make It Creamy
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, prepare the creamy sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth. This mixture will act as a thickening agent, creating a rich, creamy sauce. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, followed by the crumbled bacon. Continue to cook on high for an additional 25-30 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become luxuriously creamy.
7. Add the Final Touches
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. The sour cream adds a tangy depth, while the cheese melts into the sauce, making it even richer and more indulgent. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
8. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the creamy bacon chicken to serving plates or a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. The parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of herbal brightness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Variations and Substitutions
For Picky Eaters: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can skip the garlic and use onion powder instead of fresh onions. This will give a smoother taste while still maintaining the essence of the dish.
For a Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can substitute the flour with a cornstarch slurry. To do this, mix equal parts cornstarch and water and stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
Add Greens: Incorporate spinach or kale into the slow cooker during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for an added nutrient boost and a touch of freshness.
Use Pre-Cooked Bacon: To save time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits. This eliminates the need to cook the bacon separately and simplifies the preparation process.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and indulgence. The combination of tender chicken, rich and creamy sauce, and crispy bacon makes it a standout dish for any occasion. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to come home to a meal that’s ready to be enjoyed with minimal effort.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even casual gatherings with friends. The versatility of the recipe means you can easily adapt it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken promises to be a hit at your table. Enjoy the process of making this dish and savor the delightful results!
