Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken Bacon

Creamy honey mustard chicken with crispy bacon is a dinner that feels much fancier than the time it takes to make. Tender chicken is cloaked in a luscious sauce that balances tangy Dijon and sweet honey, all crowned with crisp, salty bacon. It is my go-to when I want something comforting and crowd-pleasing without spending all evening in the kitchen.

The first time I made this was when my teens brought home friends unexpectedly. Everyone scraped their plates clean, and now it is in our monthly rotation.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Essential for a lean tender base Choose plump pieces without excess moisture
• Bacon: Adds smoky rich crunch Thick cut or center cut work best
• Olive oil and butter: Blends smooth flavor and ensures even browning Use fresh olive oil for the best taste
• Heavy cream: Creates a silky sauce Full fat is key for richness
• Honey: Provides sweet balance Opt for pure local honey
• Dijon mustard: Lends depth and sharpness Look for creamy French-style Dijons
• Apple cider vinegar: Brightens the sauce Look for raw unfiltered vinegar if possible
• Garlic powder onion powder salt pepper: All-purpose seasoning for chicken Go for fresh spices for best flavor
• Fresh parsley: Adds finishing freshness Flat leaf parsley holds up best for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper massage the spices in so they cling to the meat

Cook the Bacon:

Heat a large skillet over medium and cook bacon slices until very crispy turning as needed This builds the deep background flavor Set aside on a plate and let cool then crumble

Sear the Chicken:

To the same skillet add olive oil and butter Once sizzling add the chicken Cook for five to seven minutes on each side until golden and cooked through with juices running clear Remove and set aside

Make the Sauce:

Lower heat to medium low Pour heavy cream into the skillet whisking up the browned bits Add honey Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar if using Whisk until smooth and let simmer for about five minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened and coats the back of a spoon

Combine and Finish:

Nestle the cooked chicken back into the pan spooning sauce liberally over each piece Top with crumbled bacon and sprinkle a handful of fresh parsley before serving

Save

One time I forgot to pick up heavy cream and used a splash of half-and-half Instead the sauce was lighter but still delicious My favorite part is always the bacon it adds a crunchy pop that everyone fights over

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in the fridge up to three days Store in an airtight container and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream to keep the sauce smooth Microwave works too but use lower power to avoid overcooking the chicken

Ingredient Substitutions

If you only have chicken thighs they work beautifully and bring an even juicier finish Smoked paprika can be sprinkled on the chicken for an extra smoky depth If out of heavy cream use half-and-half but avoid fat-free versions for sauce stability Maple syrup can stand in for honey and stone ground mustard works well if Dijon is not handy

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken over fluffy rice buttery mashed potatoes or crisp steamed green beans A lightly dressed lemon salad brightens the plate A crusty bread makes sure none of that sauce goes to waste

Cultural and Historical Context

Honey mustard is a pairing rooted in both American comfort food and European traditions blending the best of sweet and tangy The bacon crisped and layered on top is a nod to classic Southern cooking where pork brings warmth and richness to poultry dishes

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness and flavor.

→ Can the sauce be made in advance?

Yes, the honey mustard cream sauce can be prepared ahead and gently reheated when ready to serve.

→ How do I keep the bacon crispy?

Cook bacon separately until crisp, then add it just before serving to maintain its texture.

→ What is a good side to serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.