🍗 Baked Chicken with Bacon & Cheese in Creamy Sauce

🔪 Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken:
   Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken in olive oil for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown (not fully cooked). Remove and set aside.
2. Cook Bacon & Aromatics:
   In the same pan, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside (leave fat in the pan).
3. Sauté Veggies:
   Add onions and mushrooms to the pan and sauté for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
   Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Assemble:
   Return chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Top each piece with bacon bits, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake:
   Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp: 165°F) and cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish & Serve:
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
• Great for family dinners or impressing guests!

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💡 Variations:

• Vegetarian: Use tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken.
• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Let me know if you’d like a slow cooker version or keto-friendly adaptation! 😊