Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe

Okay, if you’re looking for a cozy, dinner-in-one-pan kind of recipe, you’ve *got* to try this Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together in a flash—and the flavor combo is just unbeatable. The crispy bacon, tender chicken, and caramelized Brussels sprouts swimming in a luscious mustard cream sauce? Yes, please!

This recipe has become one of my go-tos for busy weeknights or casual dinners when I want something hearty without fussing over multiple pots. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for family or friends. If you haven’t made a skillet this creamy and comfy, trust me, this Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe pulls together some surprisingly simple ingredients that marry perfectly. Each component adds to the overall texture and depth—a little smoky, a little tangy, a lot delicious.

• Thick-cut bacon: Gives smoky, crispy bits that add both texture and rich flavor.
• Brussels sprouts: When halved and caramelized, they develop natural sweetness and a lovely bite.
• Chicken tenders: Cook quickly and stay tender, perfect for skillet meals.
• Olive oil: Helps with browning and adds a subtle fruity base note.
• Garlic cloves: Adds fragrant depth to the cream sauce.
• White wine: Deglazes the pan, lifting all those tasty browned bits for extra flavor.
• Chicken stock: Adds savory richness to the sauce and keeps it from being too heavy.
• Cream: Brings the luscious, smooth texture the dish is known for.
• Whole grain mustard: Gives just the right punch of tang and subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every component perfectly.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe depending on what I have on hand or my mood. It’s super flexible, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

• Variation: Sometimes I swap chicken tenders for boneless thighs because they stay juicy longer and have a richer flavor, especially if I’m cooking for guests who like dark meat.
• Vegetarian twist: Skip the bacon and chicken, toss in sautéed mushrooms and smoked paprika for a smoky, hearty version that still feels indulgent.
• Seasonal swap: During fall, I sub the Brussels sprouts with roasted cauliflower or green beans for a change in texture while keeping the creamy, mustard sauce.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe

Step 1: Crispy Bacon First for the Flavor Base

Start by chopping the bacon thick-cut style—this gives you nice chunks that crisp up perfectly. Cook it over medium-high heat in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan until golden and crispy. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes; don’t rush it because the rendered fat is what makes the Brussels sprouts and chicken taste amazing. Drain the bacon on paper towels but keep the fat in the pan—it’s the secret sauce base here.

Step 2: Caramelize Brussels Sprouts in Bacon Fat

Throw your halved Brussels sprouts into the bacon fat, season with salt and pepper, and spread them out flat in the skillet. Let them cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes so they get a beautiful caramelized crust on one side. This step adds depth and a slight sweetness that balances the smoky bacon. Then scoop them out and set aside—don’t worry, they’ll finish cooking later with the sauce.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken Tenders

Add a touch of olive oil if the pan looks dry, then place seasoned chicken tenders in the hot skillet. Let them sear for 3-4 minutes until golden on one side without moving them—this helps build flavor and a nice crust. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes so they’re mostly cooked through but still juicy inside. Remove the chicken and set aside with the sprouts and bacon.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Mustard Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and toss in minced garlic, letting it cook just until fragrant and golden—about 30 seconds. Pour in white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those tasty browned bits. Let it reduce by half for a couple minutes, then add chicken stock, cream, and the whole grain mustard. Simmer and stir until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon—this is where the magic happens and everything comes together.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken, Brussels sprouts, and crispy bacon to the skillet. Toss gently in the creamy mustard sauce so everything is evenly coated—you want all those flavors mingling. Let it heat through for a couple of minutes, then serve right from the pan while it’s warm and inviting.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe

Garnishes

I often sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the dish at the very end—it adds a bright freshness that cuts through the richness. A little cracked black pepper right before serving brings some welcome zing, too. Sometimes, I add a lemon wedge on the side; the squeeze of citrus really lifts all the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe stands well on its own, but I love to pair it with a simple rice pilaf or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted garlic bread or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette are also wonderful for balancing the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like serving this skillet straight at the table in the cast iron pan—it feels rustic and welcoming. Another idea is plating individual portions over creamy polenta or even a bed of buttered noodles, topped with chopped bacon and a sprig of herbs for color. It’s a simple way to add a touch of elegance without spoiling the homey vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to let leftovers cool fully, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it chills, so before serving again, you’ll want to gently reheat it with a splash of broth or cream to loosen it back up. It reheats exceptionally well, which is great for quick lunches the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this skillet once or twice when prepping meals ahead, and it does freeze nicely. Just pop it in a freezer-safe container without any garnish. When you thaw it, I recommend defrosting overnight in the fridge and reheating gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Reheating

To reheat, I put the leftovers back on medium-low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir gently until heated through, being careful not to dry out the chicken. It’s just as comforting a second time around—sometimes even better!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Bacon and Mustard Recipe is one of those dishes I always recommend when you want dinner that feels special but isn’t complicated. From crisp bacon to silky sauce, it hits all the comfort food notes in the best way. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s truly one of my kitchen favorites that never fails to impress with little effort. So grab your skillet, some bacon, and let’s get cooking!

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