One-Pan Cheese and Bacon Smothered Chicken is a rich, indulgent dish featuring juicy pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a creamy cheese sauce with crispy bacon. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and flavorful.
Origin One-Pan Cheese and Bacon Smothered Chicken
This dish takes inspiration from classic Southern comfort food, where rich, cheesy sauces and crispy bacon are often paired with chicken. Smothered dishes are popular in American cuisine, and this version brings together the best elements in a simple, one-pan format.
What I Love About This Recipe
The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy cheese sauce is absolutely irresistible. The fact that it’s all made in one pan means fewer dishes and more flavor from the bacon drippings. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add mushrooms, spinach, or even a hint of spice for a personal touch.
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One-Pan Cheese and Bacon Smothered Chicken
4
servings25
minutes35
minutes512
kcalIngredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
¼ cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
- Season the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In the same pan, add olive oil and butter. Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat and add minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the pan.
- Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the pan and spoon some sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and cooked bacon over the chicken.
- Cover and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.
