Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken

There’s something just so comforting about the aroma of a heartwarming meal filling up the house as you get on with your day, especially when it’s as delightful as this Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken. It’s a recipe that’s been passed around in potlucks and across kitchen tables in various forms, honed by busy parents and comfort food aficionados alike. This dish, with its creamy sauce and savory notes of bacon, is a tribute to those cherished, unhurried family dinners where the day’s hustle and bustle gives way to laughter and shared stories around the table. It’s for those evenings when you crave something indulgent, yet straightforward, knowing that your slow cooker is doing all the heavy lifting, ensuring you can focus on what matters most—time with your loved ones.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a comforting, down-home meal, I love to serve it with buttery mashed potatoes or over a bed of egg noodles. If you’re looking to keep things on the lighter side, a simple garden salad or steamed green beans nicely complement the richness of the chicken. And, of course, a side of fluffy biscuits is ideal for sopping up that delectable gravy. Feel free to round out your table with whatever cozy accompaniments your family prefers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken make for a mouthwatering dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. It’s also versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides to suit your preferences. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, freeing up your time for other activities.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl

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)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place them in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Crumble the bacon once it’s cool enough to handle.
3. In the bacon grease, sauté the onion until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker over the chicken.
4. Deglaze the skillet with the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Pour this over the chicken as well.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Mix the heavy cream and flour together, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker along with the crumbled bacon. Cook on high for an additional 25-30 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Just before serving, stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste before serving.
• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Additional Tips & Variations

• If you’re catering to picky eaters, you can leave the onion out of the recipe and use onion powder for flavor instead.
• For a thicker sauce, you can use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) instead of flour.
• To add a bit more green to your meal, try stirring in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
• For those busy days, you can use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits to save on prep time.
• As always, ensure your slow cooker is not overloaded or too empty to ensure even cooking.
• And remember, the most important ingredient is a sprinkle of love!

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 500
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly. Ensure they are cooked through before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before eating.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delightful Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken that’s sure to become a staple in your home. It’s easy to prepare and filled with comforting flavors that everyone will love. I hope you try this recipe and enjoy it as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal touches you added in the comments below!