Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Beer Cheese Sauce
- Make a Roux: In the skillet with the bacon drippings, add the butter and melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Add the Beer and Broth: Slowly whisk in the beer and chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the beer cheese sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat.
- Simmer: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Top with Bacon: Just before serving, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
- With Mashed Potatoes: Serve the Creamy Beer Cheese Chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With Pasta: Pair the chicken with your favorite pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- With Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Tips and Tricks
- Choosing the Beer: A lager or pale ale works best for this recipe, providing a balanced flavor without overpowering the dish. Avoid using dark beers as they may impart a bitter taste.
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar cheese is recommended for its melting properties and flavor, but you can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
- Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or beer to reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy Beer Cheese Chicken with Crispy Bacon is a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The rich, cheesy sauce paired with juicy chicken and crispy bacon creates a flavor combination that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delicious results. Bon appétit!