Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Bacon and Mushrooms

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Bacon and Mushrooms

 Description

This rich and flavorful dish features seared chicken breasts smothered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce loaded with mushrooms, spinach, and crispy bacon. It’s comforting, keto-friendly, and perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion — ready in under 40 minutes!

 Ingredients

Servings: 4

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup fresh spinach

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Optional: 1 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Season chicken breasts on both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

   • Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Bacon:

   • In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy.

   • Remove bacon and place on paper towels; leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms:

   • Add butter to the pan.

   • Sauté mushrooms until browned, about 4–5 minutes.

   • Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

   • Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

   • Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes (if using).

   • Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Add Spinach & Combine:

   • Add spinach to the sauce and let it wilt.

   • Return chicken and bacon to the pan, spooning sauce over the top.

   • Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with extra Parmesan and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta — or keep it low-carb with zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.

 Notes & Tips

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

• Don’t overcook the chicken — internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).

• Add wine: Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup of dry white wine before adding broth for extra depth.

• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.

 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

(Values may vary slightly based on ingredients used.)

 Health Benefits

• High in protein: Supports muscle repair and satiety.

• Low-carb & keto-friendly: Great for blood sugar management.

• Rich in vitamins: Spinach adds iron and vitamin K; mushrooms offer antioxidants.

• Healthy fats: Olive oil and cream provide energy and flavor.

 Q & A

Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be thinner — you can thicken it with a bit of cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

Q: How long does it keep?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes — cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: What can I serve it with?
A: It pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, rice, or pasta.