One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy

One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy is a delightful dish that combines the richness of chicken with the savory flavors of turkey bacon and mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or any occasion when you crave something hearty yet healthy. It stands out due to its one-skillet preparation, making cleanup a breeze, and it offers a keto-friendly option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Gravy: The combination of turkey bacon and mushrooms creates a rich gravy that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a standalone dish or serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for extra veggies.
• Low-Carb Option: Perfectly fits into a keto diet with minimal carbs and high protein content.
• Paleo-Friendly Modification: Easily adapted for paleo diets by using arrowroot as a thickener.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking and provides enough space to sear the chicken and combine all ingredients without crowding.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping turkey bacon and slicing mushrooms quickly and safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that flavors are balanced in this savory dish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy is a hearty, savory, satisfying meal that has a paleo option.

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ lb chicken thighs or breasts (skinless boneless, about 4 to 5 pieces)

For the Gravy:

• 2 slices uncooked Turkey Bacon (chopped)
• 1 ½ cup sliced white mushrooms
• 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
• ½ tsp sea salt (divided)
• ⅛ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
• ⅓ cup chicken broth

Thickener:

• 3 ounces cream cheese, softened

How to Make One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

1. Sprinkle chicken thighs or breasts with ¼ tsp sea salt and ⅛ tsp black pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp avocado oil.
3. Sear the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until browned.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Bacon

1. Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
3. Fry chopped turkey bacon until slightly browned.

Step 3: Add Mushrooms and Garlic

1. Add 1 tbsp butter to the skillet and let it melt.
2. Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms; sauté until mushrooms are browned and softened.

Step 4: Create the Gravy

1. Pour in ⅓ cup chicken broth along with dried thyme and remaining salt.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Increase heat to medium-high until bubbling occurs.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

1. Add softened cream cheese to the bubbling mixture.
2. Stir continuously until cream cheese melts into sauce, thickening it.

Step 6: Simmer with Chicken

1. Return chicken back to the skillet with mushroom gravy.
2. Cover and reduce heat to low; let simmer for about 5 to 8 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through.
3. Plate your delicious One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy, pouring some gravy over each serving.

Enjoy your delightful meal!

How to Serve One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy

Serving One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy is a delightful experience. The rich flavors of the gravy paired with tender chicken make it a comforting meal any time of the year. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It absorbs the delicious gravy, adding texture and flavor.

Serve with Steamed Asparagus

• Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crunchy freshness that complements the savory chicken dish beautifully.

Accompany with Zucchini Noodles

• Zucchini noodles are a fantastic way to keep your meal keto-friendly while providing an additional veggie boost.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh parsley or thyme on top before serving adds a burst of color and enhances the flavors of the dish.

Enjoy with a Side Salad

• A crisp salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar balances the richness of the gravy, providing contrast and freshness.

How to Perfect One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy

Perfecting this dish requires attention to detail for optimal flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use quality chicken: Selecting fresh, high-quality chicken thighs or breasts ensures better flavor and tenderness in your dish.

• Control heat carefully: Cooking on medium-high heat allows for proper browning without burning. Adjust as necessary to maintain even cooking.

• Don’t rush the mushrooms: Allow mushrooms to brown properly for enhanced umami flavor; this step is key to a rich gravy.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning throughout the cooking process helps build layers of flavor, so don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Let it simmer: Giving the dish time to simmer after adding chicken back in ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy

Complementing One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – Creamy mashed cauliflower flavored with garlic provides a smooth side that pairs wonderfully with the gravy.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich gravy.

3. Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach offers vibrant color and nutrients, balancing out the hearty chicken dish.

4. Broccoli Salad – A refreshing broccoli salad dressed in a light vinaigrette adds crunch and acidity, enhancing your meal’s overall taste.

5. Creamed Spinach – Rich and creamy spinach is indulgent yet fits perfectly within keto guidelines, making it an ideal companion for this dish.

6. Riced Broccoli – Lightly seasoned riced broccoli serves as another excellent low-carb base soaked in gravy, enhancing each bite’s satisfaction.

7. Cabbage Slaw – A crunchy cabbage slaw provides texture and freshness, counterbalancing the savory flavors of the main dish.

8. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with vegetables make for an attractive and nutritious side that complements your chicken beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes to look out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your meat before cooking for a better taste.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too much chicken in the pan at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
• Not allowing the sauce to thicken: Rushing through the thickening process can result in a watery gravy. Give it time and ensure your cream cheese is fully melted into the sauce.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap or old ingredients can affect flavor and texture. Invest in fresh mushrooms and quality broth for the best results.
• Neglecting to check doneness: Not ensuring your chicken is cooked through can lead to food safety issues. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled down before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy.

Can I use other types of meat?

You can easily substitute chicken with turkey or beef based on your preference while keeping the recipe keto-friendly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well, making it easy to have ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, replace cream cheese with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream.

What are some side dishes that pair well?

Serve this dish with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that complements its rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and can be customized by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty meal that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle!