There’s nothing quite like coming home to the delightful aromas of dinner ready and waiting, especially when it’s something as comforting and indulgent as Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken. This dish is a celebration of those lazy evenings where the slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to unwind and spend quality time with family. It’s a favorite at potlucks and family dinners, where its creamy, bacon-infused goodness makes it a hit every time. The ease of this recipe makes it perfect for busy weekdays, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious, comforting meal without any fuss.
Perfect Pairings: Serve this creamy delight with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or over steaming egg noodles to soak up the rich sauce. For a lighter touch, accompany it with a crisp green salad or some tender steamed green beans. And don’t forget a side of fluffy biscuits, perfect for that last swipe through the sauce!
Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken
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:
Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place them snugly into your slow cooker.
Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, crisp up the bacon. Once done, set it aside on paper towels to drain and cool before crumbling.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Using the leftover bacon grease, sauté the onion until translucent; then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Scoop this flavorful mix over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Deglaze: Pour chicken broth into the skillet to deglaze, loosening up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Pour this liquid gold over the chicken.
Slow Cook: Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Make It Creamy: Whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth, then stir this into the slow cooker. Add the crumbled bacon. Cook on high for another 25-30 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
Add the Final Touches: Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheese until well combined and the cheese has melted into a lovely creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success:
For Picky Eaters: Substitute onion with a pinch of onion powder for a smoother flavor.
Thicker Sauce: Prefer a thicker sauce? Swap the flour for a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and water).
Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an added nutrient boost.
Save Time: Use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits to cut down on preparation time.
Slow Cooker Care: Make sure your slow cooker is the right size for the recipe to ensure even cooking.
This Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a moment of comfort, meant to be savored and shared. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that’s sure to become a cherished part of your family’s recipe collection. Happy cooking!