This Creamy Chicken, Bacon, and Cauliflower Bake is a rich and satisfying comfort dish that’s ideal for any night of the week. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and roasted cauliflower, all enveloped in a decadent creamy sauce, this bake delivers a hearty and flavorful meal. The combination of savory ingredients and creamy texture makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and gatherings. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients while still offering indulgent flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 6 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- In the same skillet, add the diced chicken cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika for flavor.
- Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3-5 minutes until it begins to thicken.
- Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Add the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet, mixing them gently with the creamy sauce and cauliflower.
- Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor, and serve hot.
Conclusion: This Creamy Chicken, Bacon, and Cauliflower Bake is a comforting, indulgent dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken and bacon with the light, healthy taste of cauliflower. The creamy sauce binds everything together, offering a rich and satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy this delicious bake with a side salad or your favorite low-carb side dish for a complete meal.