One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy

One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy is a hearty and savory dish that brings together juicy chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and rich mushroom gravy. This versatile meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. With its low-carb profile, this dish caters to keto dieters while also offering a paleo-friendly option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one skillet recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of turkey bacon, mushrooms, and creamy gravy creates a rich flavor that comforts the palate.
• Keto-Friendly: With only 3 grams of carbs per serving, this dish fits perfectly into your keto meal plan.
• Paleo Option Available: Easily swap out ingredients for a paleo version without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with a side salad or over zoodles for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious One Skillet Keto Chicken with Bacon Mushroom Gravy, you will need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or large frying pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or large frying pan: Ideal for even heat distribution, helping to sear the chicken perfectly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures easy chopping of turkey bacon and mushrooms for quick prep.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients ensures consistent results every time.

Ingredients

One Skillet Keto Chicken with Turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy is a hearty, savory meal that has a paleo option.

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ lb chicken thighs or breasts (skinless boneless (about 4 to 5 pieces))

For the Sauce

• 2 slices uncooked Turkey Bacon (chopped)
• 1 ½ cup sliced white mushrooms
• 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
• ½ tsp sea salt (divided)
• ⅛ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
• ⅓ cup chicken broth

For Thickening

• 3 ounces cream cheese, softened

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Sprinkle chicken with ¼ tsp salt and ⅛ tsp pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken in the 1 tbsp oil for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until browned.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate; set aside.
2. In the same skillet, over medium heat, fry the chopped turkey bacon until slightly browned.

Step 3: Add Mushrooms and Garlic

1. Add 1 tbsp butter to the skillet; let it melt.
2. Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms; sauté until mushrooms are browned and softened.

Step 4: Create the Gravy

1. Pour in chicken broth and add dried thyme along with ¼ tsp salt; stir well.
2. Increase heat to medium-high until bubbling occurs.
3. Add cream cheese; melt and stir into the sauce until it thickens. If doing paleo, substitute with arrowroot mixture instead.

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken

1. Return chicken to the skillet with mushroom sauce.
2. Cover and reduce heat to low; simmer for about 5 to 8 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked through.
3. Plate chicken and pour mushroom turkey bacon gravy over it before serving.

How to Serve One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy

Serving One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy is simple and can be tailored to your preferences. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy gravy.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach provides a healthy, vibrant side that complements the dish.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing makes for a refreshing pairing.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the heaviness of the gravy.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness to the dish.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan can add extra flavor and richness.

How to Perfect One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy

To achieve perfection with your One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy, consider these tips for better results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and mushrooms will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Searing the chicken properly requires space; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste as you go! You can always add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
• Cook on medium-high heat: This helps in achieving that beautiful brown crust on your chicken while keeping it juicy inside.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain juices when slicing.
• Experiment with herbs: While thyme is great, try adding rosemary or oregano for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options that pair well with One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes, seasoned perfectly to complement the dish.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb pasta option that absorbs the delicious gravy.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add texture and earthy flavors that work well alongside the chicken.
4. Broccoli Rice: Finely chopped broccoli cooked until tender gives you a nutritious base for the savory gravy.
5. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: Flavored cauliflower rice offers a hearty side that soaks up all those rich flavors beautifully.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy, it’s essential to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Bold seasoning: Under-seasoning your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you season both the chicken and gravy adequately.
• Bold cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the turkey bacon or chicken. Maintain medium heat for even cooking and browning.
• Bold thickening issues: Adding cream cheese too quickly can result in clumping. Incorporate it gradually, allowing it to melt into the sauce smoothly.
• Bold timing mistakes: Not letting the chicken simmer long enough can leave it undercooked. Always check for doneness before serving.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using regular turkey bacon instead of turkey bacon changes the flavor profile. Stick to turkey bacon for this keto-friendly option.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, about 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy?

You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Adjust herbs and spices according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream to keep it keto-friendly.

Is One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep lunches throughout the week.

What sides pair well with One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy?

Serve alongside steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice for a complete meal that stays within keto guidelines.

Final Thoughts

One Skillet Keto Chicken with turkey Bacon Mushroom Gravy is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. Give it a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle!