This hearty and comforting chicken and bacon potato skillet is the perfect dish for when you need a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. With tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish will satisfy any hunger. Loaded with veggies like carrots and mushrooms, it’s a great way to get a wholesome meal on the table. Let’s get cooking! 🧡
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 1 kg potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 frozen chicken fillet (approx. 200g), thawed and diced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 200g bacon, diced
- 8-10 mushrooms, sliced
- 50g cheese, grated
- 100 ml cream
- A little extra flour (for thickening if needed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut the potatoes into cubes. Fill a pot with water, add the potatoes, and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken and Bacon:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and fry until crispy, then remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced chicken fillet and cook until golden brown. Season with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Set aside with the bacon.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, then sauté the onions for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and carrots, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the carrots are slightly tender.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Slowly add the cream, whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the sauce, adding the grated cheese, until thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or more cream to thin it out.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked potatoes, chicken, bacon, and mushrooms to the skillet. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Finish and Serve:
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh dill and parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy! 😍
Cooking Tips
- Crispy Bacon: Make sure to cook the bacon until it’s crispy to add a delightful texture to the dish.
- Creamy Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more cream or water to loosen it up.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Serve with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes provide a great source of potassium and fiber.
- Chicken offers lean protein, while bacon adds a savory punch.
- The carrots and mushrooms contribute vitamins and minerals, making this a balanced meal.
Storage Information
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: Perfect for a satisfying meal.
- Easy to Customize: Swap or add different veggies and proteins.
- Creamy and Comforting: The rich sauce brings all the ingredients together beautifully.
- Family-Friendly: A great dish for everyone to enjoy.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken and bacon potato skillet is a delightful meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and full. The combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a flavorful cream sauce makes this dish a must-try. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving comfort food. Bon appétit! 🧡
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen?
- Yes, fresh chicken works just as well. Simply dice and cook it as instructed.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
- What can I substitute for cream?
- You can use half-and-half, milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter option.
- Can I omit the bacon?
- Yes, if you prefer a lighter dish, you can omit the bacon or use turkey bacon as a substitute.
- How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?
- Make sure to boil the potatoes until just tender, but not too soft, to maintain their structure in the dish.
- Can I use other types of cheese?
- Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda would all be great options.
- Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
- How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
- Gradually add the cream and stir constantly to ensure the sauce remains smooth. Add more liquid if needed.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just be aware that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing.
- What can I use to replace the butter?
- Olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute can be used instead of regular butter for a dairy-free version.