One-pan cheese and bacon chicken

One-pan cheese and bacon chicken combines tender chicken breasts, crispy bacon, and sautéed mushrooms and leeks in a creamy sauce, all baked together for an easy weeknight meal. This comforting dish features a delightful blend of flavors and minimizes cleanup with just one pan.

13 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

3 potatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
1 lb chicken breasts
5 bacon strips
1 cup mushrooms
1 leek
1/3 cup white wine
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley

One-pan cheese and bacon chicken is a delicious and comforting meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with crispy bacon, savory mushrooms, flavorful leeks, and creamy mozzarella cheese, all cooked together in a single pan. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also minimizes the cleanup, making it a convenient option for busy families and individuals.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare Potatoes:
- Thinly slice the potatoes.
- In a large oven-proof skillet, heat 2 tbsp of the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the potato slices, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they start to soften and brown, approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Cook Chicken:
- Push the potatoes to the sides of the skillet to create space in the center.
- Add the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil to the center and place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and almost cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

4. Cook Bacon:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.

5. Cook Vegetables:
- Add the sliced mushrooms and leeks to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

6. Deglaze and Make Sauce:
- Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the wine reduces by half.
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

7. Combine:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in with the potatoes and sauce.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top.
- Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken breasts and vegetables.

8. Bake:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation.

This one-pan cheese and bacon chicken dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy cheese is simply irresistible. Serve it with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

One-pan cheese and bacon chicken FAQ:

What is the baking time for this dish?

Bake the One-Pan Cheese and Bacon Chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center. A meat thermometer is the best tool to check doneness.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone, depending on your taste preference. Just ensure the cheese melts well.

How should I store leftovers from this recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What can I use instead of white wine in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or apple cider vinegar mixed with water for a similar flavor profile.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure to cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

- Pre-cook the bacon slightly before adding it to the dish for an extra crispy texture.

- Use a large enough pan to avoid overcrowding, which ensures even cooking.

- If you don't have white wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth for a similar flavor.

- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 590kcal
Protein 45g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 4.58g
Sugar 5g
Fat 40g

One-pan cheese and bacon chicken