Delicious Homemade Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with Crispy Bacon


If you’re looking for a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and the irresistible crunch of bacon, then this Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with Crispy Bacon recipe is perfect for you! Rated a stellar 4.5 stars by home cooks, this dish is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will impress your family or guests. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or hosting a small gathering, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the details and create a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish stands out due to its harmonious blend of ingredients. The creamy honey mustard sauce adds a luscious texture, while the crispy bacon brings a smoky crunch that elevates every bite. It’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Plus, with a few simple tweaks, you can make it your own by adjusting the sweetness or adding your favorite herbs.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter (for that perfect sautéed base)
  • 1 cup of heavy cream (for a rich and velvety sauce)
  • 1/3 cup of high-quality honey (to balance the tang with natural sweetness)
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
  • 6-8 strips of bacon (choose thick-cut for extra crispiness)
  • 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard (for a bold mustard kick)
  • 1 tablespoon of whole-grain mustard (for added texture and flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (to enhance the savory notes)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and freshness)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky depth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bacon
  • Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s golden and crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. After it cools slightly, crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside, reserving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor.
  1. Cook the Chicken
  • Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the tablespoon of butter and melt it over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
  1. Make the Creamy Honey Mustard Sauce
  • Lower the heat to medium and pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to incorporate the flavorful bits left from the chicken and bacon. Add the Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, and honey, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes. If you’d like a hint of smokiness, stir in the optional smoked paprika at this stage. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  1. Combine and Serve
  • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them to coat evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped parsley over the top for a garnish that adds both texture and visual appeal. Serve hot, plating the chicken with extra sauce drizzled on top.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a hearty meal, try it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf. If you prefer something lighter, steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a crisp Caesar salad can complement the richness of the sauce. A glass of chilled white wine, like a Chardonnay, can also enhance the dining experience.

Tips for Success

  • Bacon Choice: Opt for thick-cut bacon to ensure it stays crispy even after being added to the sauce.
  • Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the bacon and chicken in advance, then reheat and add the sauce just before serving to save time.
  • Customization: For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Nutritional Notes

While this recipe is indulgent due to the heavy cream and bacon, you can lighten it up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of bacon. Each serving (based on 4 portions) provides a good source of protein from the chicken, with the honey adding a touch of natural sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with Crispy Bacon is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors that’s simple yet sophisticated. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a recipe you’ll want to revisit time and again. Give it a try, experiment with your own twists, and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!


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