Creamy Chicken and Brussels Skillet with Bacon Recipe

If you’re craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Chicken and Brussels Skillet with Bacon Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s one of those meals that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours fussing over it—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and caramelized Brussels sprouts smothered in a luscious creamy sauce is a game changer in the skillet-dinner category.

I love making this dish because it’s straightforward, yet so comforting, and those few simple ingredients come together in such a spectacular way. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this Creamy Chicken and Brussels Skillet with Bacon Recipe gives you that wow factor without stress, plus it keeps your kitchen smelling like heaven for hours.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken and Brussels Skillet with Bacon Recipe plays a delicious role—brussels sprouts bring that caramelized crunch, bacon adds irresistible smoky depth, and the creamy sauce ties everything together into a luscious, crave-worthy dish. When you pick fresh sprouts and good-quality bacon, the difference is night and day.

• Thick-cut bacon: Gives you hearty, crispy bites packed with smoky flavor—go for good quality and it’ll make all the difference.
• Brussels sprouts: Halved for maximum caramelization, their slight bitterness pops beautifully against the cream sauce.
• Chicken tenders: Perfectly tender and quick-cooking, they soak up the sauce better than bigger cuts.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps crisp everything up evenly without overpowering the flavors.
• Garlic cloves: A subtle aromatic punch that elevates the entire skillet.
• White wine: Adds acidity and depth, helping to deglaze the pan and intensify flavors in the sauce.
• Chicken stock: Gives body and savory notes to balance the cream without making it too heavy.
• Cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly velvety and luxurious.
• Whole grain mustard: Adds a small bite of tang and complexity that cuts through the richness.
• Kosher salt & freshly cracked black pepper: Essential to season and bring all the ingredients into harmony.

Make It Your Way

I like to switch things up depending on what’s in season or what my family’s craving. The beauty of this Creamy Chicken and Brussels Skillet with Bacon Recipe is how adaptable it is—feel free to tweak the veggies or add herbs to suit your taste. It’s your canvas!

• Variation: I once swapped chicken tenders for boneless thighs when I wanted a juicier bite—totally delicious and budget-friendly.
• Vegetarian twist: Skip the bacon and sub mushrooms or smoked paprika for that smoky richness without meat.
• Seasonal swaps: Try adding sautéed pearl onions in the fall or asparagus in spring for some freshness and crunch.
• Spice it up: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes gives a nice warm kick that livens up the cream sauce beautifully.

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

Step 1: Crisp Up That Bacon

Start by cooking the thick-cut bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s crispy and golden—don’t rush! The rendered bacon fat will be your secret weapon, infusing everything with smoky flavor. When it’s perfect, scoop it out onto a paper towel to drain while you move onto the veggies.

Step 2: Caramelize the Brussels Sprouts

Using that gorgeous bacon fat left in the pan, add your halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down. Season them with salt and pepper, then really let them sit without stirring for 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key — you want a beautiful golden crust. Once caramelized, take them out and set aside to keep from overcooking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Add a splash of olive oil to the pan and toss in your seasoned chicken tenders. Let them sear undisturbed for a few minutes until they get that gorgeous golden crust on one side, then flip and cook through another couple of minutes. Removing the chicken now avoids drying it out later when it simmers in the sauce.

Step 4: Build Your Creamy, Flavor-Packed Sauce

Sauté the minced garlic in the pan until golden and fragrant, then splash in the white wine to deglaze—scraping all those delicious browned bits from the pan bottom. Let it reduce slightly so the flavors intensify. Next, stir in the chicken stock, cream, and whole grain mustard, letting it gently simmer until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken tenders to the skillet, sprinkle the caramelized Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon over them, and gently toss everything in the creamy sauce to let those flavors mingle. This quick finish warms everything through and ensures each bite has a perfect balance of juicy chicken, crunchy sprouts, and smoky bacon.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Brussels Skillet with Bacon Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with just a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes I add a few extra crackles of fresh black pepper or a quick grating of parmesan, which adds that irresistible salty depth and makes the sauce shine even more.

Side Dishes

This skillet goes beautifully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. I also like serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a simple buttered egg noodle for a complete, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I arrange the chicken and Brussels sprouts on a large platter, drizzle the creamy sauce over, then sprinkle bacon and fresh herbs right before serving. It looks stunning this way and makes the meal feel extra festive without any extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they usually last about 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for even tastier lunches but the sprouts soften a bit, so I recommend reheating gently to keep their texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Creamy Chicken and Brussels Skillet with Bacon Recipe a few times without a problem. Just cool it completely, pack it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the cream sauce texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short bursts to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of chicken stock or cream while warming helps bring the sauce back to silky smoothness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Brussels Skillet with Bacon Recipe has become one of my trusted comfort food solutions whenever I want something hearty yet simple. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is so easy to prepare, and every time I make it, I’m reminded why I keep it in my regular rotation. You’re going to enjoy the mix of crispy, creamy, smoky, and tender all in one skillet—a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal at home. Give it a go; I promise it’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen, too.

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