This dish combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms and crispy bacon, all brought together in a creamy, indulgent sauce. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a luscious cream sauce enhances the succulent chicken thighs, making every bite a burst of savory goodness. Serve this dish over mashed potatoes, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the bacon: In a large ovenproof skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Sear the chicken: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the olive oil to the skillet if needed. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, and smoked paprika. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine everything: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top and pour the cream sauce over everything. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of this comforting dish!
