If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, this Chicken and Bacon Creamed Corn is perfect for you. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet corn in a luscious cream sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky bacon, sweet corn, and juicy chicken creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with sides like roasted veggies or crusty bread.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts (or thighs), boneless and skinless
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamed Corn:
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In the same skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Creamed Corn
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the corn kernels and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Sprinkle in the flour and mix well to coat the corn evenly. Gradually pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and half of the cooked bacon pieces. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the creamed corn over it. Let everything heat through for another 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with remaining bacon pieces and fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with steamed green beans or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that creamy sauce.
- Add crusty bread on the side—it’s perfect for mopping up every last bit!
Tips for Customization
- Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cheese Swap: Try cheddar or Gruyère instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
- Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce calories.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
A: Yes! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well before adding it to the skillet.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the creamed corn portion ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve with freshly cooked chicken.
Q: What other herbs can I use?
A: Fresh basil or thyme would work wonderfully as garnishes or mixed into the cream sauce. This Chicken and Bacon Creamed Corn recipe is comfort food at its finest—easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to become a family favorite! Try it tonight and let me know how it turns out!
