Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe

Oh, you’ve got to try this Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe — it’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and surprisingly wholesome. I remember the first time I made it on a cozy weeknight, craving something easy yet packed with flavor. The mix of tender chicken, crispy bacon, caramelized Brussels sprouts, all brought together in a luscious creamy sauce? Yes, please!

This recipe works wonders when you want a quick, comforting dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste or satisfaction. The creaminess paired with those nutty, slightly charred veggies makes it a crowd-pleaser, especially for anyone who usually turns their nose up at Brussels sprouts. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe, it’ll become your go-to in the cooler months or whenever you want a dish that hits all the right notes.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

The star ingredients in the Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe all play a part in building rich layers of flavor that work harmoniously. Using thick-cut bacon ensures you get plenty of crispy texture, while chicken tenders cook up tender and fast. Don’t skimp on fresh Brussels sprouts—halved for perfect caramelization—because they add a beautiful bite.

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon crisps up beautifully and its rendered fat adds incredible flavor to the pan.
• Brussel Sprouts: Halved to maximize caramelization and those crisp edges you want.
• Chicken Tenders: Quick-cooking and tender, making the dish ready in a flash while staying juicy.
• Olive Oil: A little extra fat to help the chicken brown nicely without sticking.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant punch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• White Wine: A splash to deglaze the pan and add brightness and acidity to balance richness.
• Chicken Stock: Builds savory depth in the sauce.
• Cream: Makes the sauce truly luscious and silky.
• Whole Grain Mustard: Adds subtle tang and texture, boosting the sauce’s complexity.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Essentials to season everything just right.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how flexible this Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe is. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or swap out the cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. It’s your kitchen, so feel free to personalize it and make it your own!

• Spice it up: Adding cayenne or smoked paprika gives this dish a gentle kick that my family adores.
• Cheesy upgrade: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan in the sauce takes the creaminess to another level.
• Vegetable swaps: If Brussels sprouts aren’t your thing, try baby broccoli or asparagus for a fresh change.
• Protein alternatives: I’ve used chicken thighs instead of tenders for richer flavor, just adjust the cooking time carefully.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Crispy Bacon Magic

Start by chopping your thick-cut bacon and cooking it over medium-high heat in a large cast iron skillet or heavy pan. This part is crucial because you want the bacon crisped but not burnt. When it’s perfectly crispy, scoop it out onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain—don’t toss that bacon fat just yet; it’s liquid gold for cooking your Brussels sprouts and adding tons of flavor.

Step 2: Caramelize the Brussels Sprouts

Next, toss your halved Brussels sprouts into the hot bacon fat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Keep the pan undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes so the sprouts can get that gorgeous caramelized crust. Once browned on one side, stir them around briefly and then transfer them to a bowl. If your skillet feels dry, add a drizzle of olive oil before moving on.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Now, add olive oil if needed, then place your seasoned chicken tenders in the hot pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden on one side. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the chicken is just cooked through—remember, it’ll cook more once combined with the sauce, so don’t overdo it here. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Add your minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant and golden but not burned. Pour in white wine to deglaze, scraping up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, then stir in chicken stock, cream, and whole grain mustard. Simmer gently until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the pan, sprinkle in the Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon, then toss everything gently to coat in that luscious sauce. Heat through for just a minute or two—don’t overcook or the cream might separate. Then it’s ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A little lemon zest also works wonders if you want to brighten up the richness just before serving—it’s a small touch that really wakes up the dish.

Side Dishes

This skillet dish is hearty enough on its own, but on occasion, I like to serve it alongside simple roasted baby potatoes or a quick wild rice pilaf. A crusty baguette also pairs beautifully, perfect for mopping up all that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I’ve plated this dish over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to amp up the comfort factor. Serving it family-style right in the skillet is great for casual gatherings and keeps things cozy and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I recommend transferring leftovers to airtight containers once cooled and storing them in the fridge. This Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days without losing that lovely flavor or texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a couple of times with good results—just freeze in portion-sized containers. When thawing, do it overnight in the fridge to maintain creaminess and avoid the sauce separating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the creamy sauce split or the chicken dry out. Stir often and heat just until warmed through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Skillet with Bacon Recipe has truly become a staple in my kitchen for its ease, bold flavors, and comforting creaminess. I love that it makes weeknight dinners feel special without a lot of fuss — and honestly, it’s a great way to get friends or family on board with Brussels sprouts! I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every bite as much as I do.

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