Chicken Strips with Mustard, Bacon, and Mushrooms: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent, Chicken Strips with Mustard, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a must-try. This dish combines tender chicken strips, crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy mustard sauce for a rich and satisfying experience. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive meal to share with family and friends.

Imagine the smoky aroma of sizzling bacon paired with the tangy zing of mustard and the depth of mushrooms, all coming together in a creamy sauce that wraps around perfectly cooked chicken. This dish is as comforting as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s what makes this dish a standout:

• Rich Flavors: The combination of bacon, mustard, and mushrooms creates a well-balanced, savory taste.
• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and one skillet, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Pairs with Anything: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients for Chicken Strips with Mustard, Bacon, and Mushrooms

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful dish:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breasts (cut into strips)	1½ lbs (700g)
Bacon (diced)	4 slices
Mushrooms (sliced)	1 cup
Onion (finely chopped)	1 small
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Chicken broth	½ cup
Heavy cream	½ cup
Dijon mustard	2 tbsp
Whole-grain mustard	1 tbsp
Olive oil or butter	2 tbsp

Seasonings

Ingredient	Quantity
Paprika	1 tsp
Salt	½ tsp
Black pepper	¼ tsp

For Garnish

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh parsley (chopped)	1 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Strips with Mustard, Bacon, and Mushrooms

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken strips with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Set the chicken aside to absorb the seasonings while you prepare the skillet.

2. Cook the Bacon

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions

1. Add the sliced mushrooms and onions to the skillet with the bacon fat.
2. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are softened and the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Remove the mixture from the skillet and set it aside with the bacon.

4. Cook the Chicken

1. Add olive oil or butter to the skillet.
2. Place the seasoned chicken strips in the pan, cooking for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

5. Make the Mustard Sauce

1. Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and whole-grain mustard.
3. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Combine and Simmer

1. Return the cooked chicken, bacon, and mushroom mixture to the skillet.
2. Stir everything to coat it in the creamy mustard sauce.
3. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors together.

7. Serve and Garnish

1. Spoon the chicken and sauce onto plates or over your choice of sides.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Strips with Mustard, Bacon, and Mushrooms

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh mushrooms and garlic enhance the flavor of this dish.

2. Adjust the Heat

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.

3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Cook the chicken just until golden and tender to keep it juicy.

4. Customize the Creaminess

If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative.

5. Choose Your Side

This dish pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	8 g
Fat	30 g
Fiber	1 g

Creative Variations of This Dish

1. Lemon Herb Twist

Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and extra herbs like rosemary or thyme to brighten the flavors.

2. Vegetarian Option

Replace the chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth for the sauce.

3. Wine-Infused Sauce

Deglaze the skillet with white wine instead of chicken broth for a richer, more aromatic sauce.

4. Cheesy Upgrade

Stir in grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese for an extra creamy and cheesy sauce.

5. Gluten-Free Version

Ensure all ingredients, especially the mustard, are gluten-free, and serve with a gluten-free side like quinoa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the chicken, bacon, and sauce separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, half-and-half, or a cashew-based cream for a dairy-free alternative.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

6. What sides go best with this dish?

Steamed vegetables, garlic bread, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement this dish beautifully.

A Final Bite: Why You Should Try This Recipe

Chicken Strips with Mustard, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a rich, flavorful meal that’s as comforting as it is easy to prepare. The creamy mustard sauce, paired with the savory goodness of bacon and mushrooms, makes it a standout dish that’s sure to impress.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a meal that feels like dining out—right in your own kitchen. This recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household!

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