Creamy french-style chicken with bacon

Creamy French-style chicken with bacon features tender chicken thighs, crispy bacon, and a rich cream sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting family meal or an elegant gathering.

25 Jan 2026
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
6 chicken thighs
1 stalk celery
2 bacon strips
4 shallots
3/4 cup mushrooms
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1.50 cups chicken gravy
2 cups carrots
1 tbsp fresh thyme
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Creamy French-style chicken with bacon is a delicious, rich, and savory dish that brings a classic French flavor to your dinner table. Combining tender chicken thighs, aromatic vegetables, and crispy bacon, this recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Before you start cooking, prepare all ingredients: chop the celery, bacon, shallots, and carrots, slice the mushrooms, and mince the garlic.

2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and brown them for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon and Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy.
- Add the chopped celery, sliced shallots, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Create the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and bacon, stirring well to combine. Cook for 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken gravy, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.

5. Add the Chicken and Carrots:
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet.
- Add the sliced carrots and fresh thyme.
- Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, and the carrots are soft.

6. Finish with Cream:
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

7. Serve:
- Serve the creamy French-style chicken with bacon over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with additional fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

This creamy French-style chicken with bacon is a satisfying, comforting dish that will surely impress your family and friends. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of warm, fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious sauce. Bon appétit!

Creamy french-style chicken with bacon FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for chicken thighs in this recipe?

The chicken thighs should be browned for about 5 minutes on each side, then simmered in the sauce for an additional 25-30 minutes until fully cooked and tender.

Can I substitute any of the ingredients in this chicken recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version. Additionally, you can use different vegetables like bell peppers or green beans if desired.

How do I know when the chicken thighs are fully cooked?

Chicken thighs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also check if the meat is tender and juices run clear.

What is the best way to store leftovers of this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What pan size is recommended for this recipe?

A large skillet or Dutch oven is recommended for this recipe to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably and allow for proper browning and simmering.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure your chicken thighs are at room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking.

- Cook the bacon until it's crisp to add texture and depth of flavor to the dish.

- Deglaze the pan with a bit of chicken gravy after cooking the vegetables to capture all the fond (the flavorful bits stuck to the pan).

- Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing the chicken and vegetables to cook slowly will produce deep, rich flavors.

- Use fresh thyme for the best flavor, but if you can’t find it, dried thyme can work as a substitute—use about half the amount.

- Add the heavy whipping cream slowly while stirring to make sure it blends well and gives you a smooth, creamy sauce.

- If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a bit more chicken gravy or even a splash of white wine for added flavor.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 620kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 4.44g
Sugar 8g
Fat 45g

Creamy french-style chicken with bacon