Before diving into the delicious depths of skillet chicken bacon white wine sauce, let’s chat about the delightful pairings that can turn a meal into an experience. This dish sings when laid alongside simple options that bring balance to its rich flavors.
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes work beautifully with the sauce, soaking up every drop. There’s something about that buttery smooth texture next to the crispy chicken and savory sauce that makes the heart sing.
2. Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: Think zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. A quick toss in olive oil and a roast in the oven allows their natural sweetness to shine, creating a contrast with the saltiness of the bacon.
3. Light Green Salad: A fresh salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sauce. It’s refreshing and adds a crunchy texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
4. Crusty Bread: Trust me, you’ll want crusty bread to mop up that incredible white wine sauce. There’s nothing like sopping up flavors that remind you of cozy dinners and kitchen laughter.
Picture this: you’re in your cozy kitchen, the fragrant aroma of sizzling bacon wafts through the air, drawing everyone into the heart of the home. You’re about to whip up something that elevates your dinner game—a skillet chicken bacon white wine sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a mini-vacation for your taste buds. This dish combines the best of all worlds: tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy, tangy sauce that sends your palate on a delightful rollercoaster ride.
You may be thinking, “Can I really make that?” Yes! Believe me. I’ve tested this recipe countless times. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I strive for deliciousness without sacrificing health. This dish checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the delicious details.
What is Skillet Chicken Bacon White Wine Sauce?
Skillet chicken bacon white wine sauce is a one-pan wonder that highlights chicken pieces seared to perfection, mingled with crispy bacon, and enveloped in a creamy sauce made from dry white wine. The wine creates a depth of flavor while the cream adds richness, transforming a mere dinner into an indulgent feast. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long week or impressing guests, this dish delivers.
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Why Does This Recipe Work?
This recipe harmonizes three essential elements: flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. The chicken becomes juicy and flavorful, thanks to both the high heat of the skillet and the decadent sauce. Bacon introduces a savory crunch that offsets the creaminess beautifully. Plus, it doesn’t linger in the kitchen forever! All of it comes together in one pan, dramatically reducing cleanup time- the ultimate win for busy home cooks.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Here’s a rundown of ingredients that you’ll need:
- Chicken Pieces: 2.5 lbs of bone-in chicken (thighs and drumsticks are ideal for juiciness).
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for initial frying.
- Unsalted Butter: 1 tablespoon for richness.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, smashed to release their robust flavor.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely diced—adds sweetness and depth.
- Smoked Bacon: 5 oz chopped, to elevate the savory factor.
- Dry White Wine: 2 cups, the backbone of the sauce.
- Chicken Stock or Water: 1 cup to balance the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: 3/4 cup brings the richness.
- Fresh Thyme: 2 tsp, aromatic and fragrant.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp for a kick of tanginess.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp to enhance flavors.
How to Make Skillet Chicken Bacon White Wine Sauce
Before jumping into the step-by-step instructions, let me just say that the beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It’s almost like a symphony of flavors coming together on a single stage. Are you ready? Let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial—it gets the skin nice and crisp when it hits the skillet. You want that golden brown glow! Season with salt and pepper liberally.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it shimmers, carefully place the chicken skin-side down. Cook for about five to six minutes until wonderfully golden. Flip the chicken and cook for another five minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Now, into that glorious chicken fat, toss in the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and the fat has rendered, about four to five minutes. You’re creating a flavor base here that’s hard to beat! Once done, remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings behind.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
In the same skillet, turn down the heat slightly, then add the smashed garlic and diced onion. Stir them around for about three minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. It should smell heavenly.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Next, pour in the dry white wine. Make sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. It’s like getting a bonus layer of flavor! Bring it to a boil and let it cook for about two to three minutes until it reduces slightly.
Step 6: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients
Now add back the chicken with any juices it released. Pour in the chicken stock, thyme, and Dijon mustard. This is where flavor magic happens! Let this simmer for about 15 minutes, so the chicken soaks in all that goodness.
Step 7: Add the Cream
Finally, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until it combines smoothly with the sauce. Let it gently bubble for about five minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and becoming luxuriously creamy.
Step 8: Finish with Bacon
Stir in that crispy bacon, and give it a taste test. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Tips for Best Results
- Chicken Choice Matters: Bone-in, skin-on chicken provides more flavor and juice. Trust me, it makes a difference.
- Use Quality Wine: Choosing a good dry white wine enhances the flavor profile of the sauce. Don’t skimp here!
- Fresh Herbs Over Dried: Fresh thyme introduces a vibrant taste that dried herbs can’t quite replicate.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: Allow the chicken to properly brown. It adds depth to the dish.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the dish warm, right from the skillet. It keeps the creaminess intact.
How to Store Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftovers—a rare occurrence, mind you—store them in an airtight container. They should be kept in the fridge and will last about three days. Reheat slowly on the stove so the sauce doesn’t separate. I recommend adding a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen it up.
Nutrition Information
For the nutrition-conscious, here’s a rough breakdown per serving (assuming six servings):
(Note: Values may vary based on specific ingredients and portions).
How Would I Recommend Serving Skillet Chicken Bacon White Wine Sauce?
Here are my top suggestions to elevate the entire meal experience:
1. With Garlic Bread: There’s nothing more enjoyable than tearing off a piece of buttery garlic bread to scoop up the sauce.
2. Paired With a Side of Rice: Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice provides a wonderful bed for the creamy sauce, soaking in all that flavor.
3. Over Pasta: Consider fettuccine or linguine as a base. The sauce will cling beautifully to the pasta’s surface.
4. As Part of a Restaurant-Style Plated Dinner: Serve alongside seasonal vegetables and a salad for a complete, restaurant-quality presentation.
What Alternatives Can You Use for Ingredients if Not Available?
Every kitchen is unique, so here are interchangeable options:
1. Chicken Thighs or Breasts: While thighs bring extra taste, using chicken breasts can work for leaner palates.
2. Bacon Types: Turkey bacon or pancetta can really pull a creative twist in this dish if you prefer something different.
3. White Wine Substitutes: If you don’t have wine, go for low-sodium chicken broth coupled with a splash of vinegar to mimic acidity.
4. Heavy Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can swap in half-and-half or a non-dairy option like coconut cream for richness without the heavy calories.
Skillet Chicken Bacon White Wine Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- large skillet
- paper towel
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs of bone-in chicken
- 1 tablespoon for initial frying.
- 1 tablespoon for richness.
- 3 cloves smashed to release their robust flavor.
- 1 medium onion finely diced—adds sweetness and depth.
- 5 oz chopped to elevate the savory factor.
- 2 cups the backbone of the sauce.
- 1 cup to balance the sauce.
- 3/4 cup brings the richness.
- 2 tsp aromatic and fragrant.
- 1 tsp for a kick of tanginess.
- 1/2 tsp to enhance flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial—it gets the skin nice and crisp when it hits the skillet. You want that golden brown glow! Season with salt and pepper liberally.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it shimmers, carefully place the chicken skin-side down. Cook for about five to six minutes until wonderfully golden. Flip the chicken and cook for another five minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
- Now, into that glorious chicken fat, toss in the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and the fat has rendered, about four to five minutes. You’re creating a flavor base here that’s hard to beat! Once done, remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings behind.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
- In the same skillet, turn down the heat slightly, then add the smashed garlic and diced onion. Stir them around for about three minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. It should smell heavenly.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
- Next, pour in the dry white wine. Make sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. It’s like getting a bonus layer of flavor! Bring it to a boil and let it cook for about two to three minutes until it reduces slightly.
Step 6: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients
- Now add back the chicken with any juices it released. Pour in the chicken stock, thyme, and Dijon mustard. This is where flavor magic happens! Let this simmer for about 15 minutes, so the chicken soaks in all that goodness.
Step 7: Add the Cream
- Finally, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until it combines smoothly with the sauce. Let it gently bubble for about five minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and becoming luxuriously creamy.
Step 8: Finish with Bacon
- Stir in that crispy bacon, and give it a taste test. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- Chicken Choice Matters: Bone-in, skin-on chicken provides more flavor and juice. Trust me, it makes a difference.
- Use Quality Wine: Choosing a good dry white wine enhances the flavor profile of the sauce. Don’t skimp here!
- Fresh Herbs Over Dried: Fresh thyme introduces a vibrant taste that dried herbs can’t quite replicate.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: Allow the chicken to properly brown. It adds depth to the dish.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the dish warm, right from the skillet. It keeps the creaminess intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw it before cooking. Adjust cooking times to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
Q2: Is there a vegetarian version?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms or eggplant, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute to achieve a similar texture without dairy.
Q4: What type of wine should I use?
A dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, works best. Avoid sweet wines
Q5: Can leftovers be frozen?
While possible, freezing might alter the sauce’s texture. If you do freeze it, reheat slowly and add cream afterward.
Q6: How can I spice this up?
Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!
Conclusion
Creating skillet chicken bacon white wine sauce is like having a mini celebration in your kitchen. It’s comforting, indulgent, and simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. You can switch up the ingredients based on what’s in your pantry; the whole process welcomes creativity.
So grab a skillet, channel your inner chef, and enjoy the blissful adventure of cooking. Trust me, this dish will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring warmth and joy to your dining table. Happy cooking!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more