There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty, home-cooked meal, especially when it delivers on both flavor and nutrition. After a long week, I wanted to whip up something that felt indulgent without the guilt—enter my Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale. It’s a delightful collision of savory flavors that dances on your palate and warms your soul.
Picture this: crispy bacon sizzling away, infusing the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. Then add tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich coconut milk and Dijon mustard sauce, gently enveloped by vibrant leafy greens. This dish not only looks elegant but also comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated, and this recipe proves it can be both simple and sensational. Whether you’re sticking to Paleo or Whole30, your taste buds are in for a treat. Let’s dive into the kitchen and bring this irresistible meal to your table!
Why is Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale so special?
Simplicity: This dish is a breeze to prepare, allowing you to impress without complicated steps.
Rich, Indulgent Flavor: The blend of coconut milk and Dijon mustard creates a creamy sauce that complements the crispy bacon perfectly.
Nutrition-Packed: Kale adds vibrant greens, boosting the dish’s health benefits while satisfying your cravings.
Versatile: Perfectly suited for both Paleo and Whole30 diets, making it a go-to for health-conscious eaters.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family meals or dinner parties, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds! Check out more delicious options in our healthy dinner recipes.
Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale Ingredients
• Let’s gather all the essentials!
For the Chicken
- Bone-in chicken thighs – these stay juicy and tender during cooking.
- Fine sea salt – enhances the flavor of our chicken beautifully.
- Black pepper – adds a touch of warmth and depth to the dish.
For the Flavor Base
- Bacon – delivers a crispy, savory punch that’s irresistible.
- Bacon fat or ghee – perfect for sautéing, adding richness to the sauce.
- Diced onion – sweetens as it cooks, complementing the chicken perfectly.
- Minced garlic – brings an aromatic allure that elevates the entire dish.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Full fat coconut milk – gives a luscious texture, making this Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale truly indulgent.
- Dijon mustard – provides a tangy kick that balances the creaminess.
- Nutritional yeast – adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Tapioca flour – helps thicken the sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
For the Greens
- Chopped kale, spinach, or other greens – packed with nutrients and adds a vibrant color and texture.
For Seasoning
- Balanced Bites savory spice blend – rounds out the dish with a warm, savory depth.
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste – adjust for your personal preference to ensure deliciousness in every bite!
These ingredients are not just about flavor; they’re about creating a heartwarming experience filled with love and nourishment!
How to Make Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale
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Preheat your oven to 400° F. This step ensures the bacon gets crispy and delicious. Lay the bacon strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until it’s perfectly crisp and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
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Season the chicken all over with fine sea salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances the flavors and ensures that each bite is deliciously seasoned.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 12 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, transfer them to a plate and keep warm.
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Drain the skillet, leaving just 1 tablespoon of the rich pan juices. Add bacon fat (or ghee) and sauté the diced onion until it becomes transparent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic and the Balanced Bites savory spice blend into the pan. Sauté for another 45 seconds, until the garlic is aromatic and slightly golden.
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Deglaze the pan by pouring in the dry white wine (or chicken bone broth) while scraping up any delightful bits stuck to the bottom. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes until reduced by half.
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Whisk the tapioca flour into the can of full fat coconut milk until well-combined. Pour in this mixture along with the Dijon mustard and nutritional yeast. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, reducing the heat, and cook for another minute.
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Add your chopped kale (or other greens) to the skillet, allowing it to wilt beautifully. Return the cooked chicken back to the pan along with the crispy, crumbled bacon.
Optional: For extra zing, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale
Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for convenient quick meals on busy days.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if the sauce has thickened.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and freshness.
Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this dish with your favorite tweaks for a unique twist!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute tapioca flour with almond flour for a gluten-free thickener that works beautifully in the sauce.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic for a hint of heat that complements the creamy sauce.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in a handful of fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor boost that elevates the entire dish.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for hearty portobello mushrooms, ensuring they’re cooked until tender for a meatless, yet satisfying meal.
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Nutty Flavor: Replace half of the coconut milk with cashew cream for a richer, nutty flavor that enhances the overall creaminess.
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Additional Veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini to the sautéed onions for a delightful pop of color and extra nutrients.
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Crispy Topping: Top the dish with panko breadcrumbs mixed with nutritional yeast and bake for a crispy, cheesy finish that adds delightful texture.
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Coconut-Free: Use unsweetened almond milk in place of coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free creamy texture that still tastes fantastic.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can season the chicken thighs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, helping to infuse flavor into the meat. Additionally, prepare the onion, garlic, and greens (like kale or spinach) in advance to streamline your cooking process. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, simply cook the prepped chicken, sauté the aromatics, deglaze, and add the creamy sauce mixture. This way, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal on the table with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made from scratch!
Expert Tips for Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale
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Crispy Bacon: Cook bacon until it’s deeply crispy, as this ensures the perfect texture and flavor infusion into your dish.
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Chicken Testing: Always check chicken for doneness by cutting into the thickest part; juices should run clear. Undercooked chicken can ruin your meal.
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Deglazing is Key: Don’t skip the deglazing step! It captures those flavorful bits from the skillet, enriching your sauce in the Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale.
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Greens Choice: Feel free to substitute the kale with spinach or Swiss chard, but be mindful to adjust cooking time as some greens wilt faster than others.
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Adjusting Thickness: If your sauce ends up too thick, simply whisk in a bit more coconut milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
What to Serve with Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale?
Imagine a cozy dinner table, filled with the warm, inviting aroma of a home-cooked feast that brings everyone together.
- Fluffy Quinoa: Provides a nutty balance and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, enhancing every bite of chicken.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Their crispy edges and fluffy interiors make a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken and sauce. Each bite of potato becomes a delightful indulgence.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of these greens complements the rich flavors of the dish while adding a crunchy texture. Roast them until golden for an irresistible crunch!
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Infused with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, this side adds brightness and pairs wonderfully with the garlicky notes of the chicken.
- Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast, cutting through the creamy goodness of the dish.
- Warm Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up that creamy coconut sauce; it’s an essential addition to your dining experience!
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc elevates this meal, with its acidity balancing the richness of the chicken.
- Coconut Macaroons: For dessert, these chewy treats offer a sweet finish that ties back to the coconut in the main dish while satisfying that sweet tooth.
Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs are ideal as they remain juicy and tender during cooking. If you prefer, boneless thighs can be used, but they may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on them!
How should I store leftover Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remember to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up.
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or divide into portions for easy reheating later. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce thickens too much while reheating, simply whisk in a splash of coconut milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore that creamy texture perfectly.
Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! This Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale is great for Paleo and Whole30 diets. However, be mindful of any bacon you use if you have specific dietary concerns like sugar intake, and always check for allergies related to coconut or mustard.
How can I tell if my chicken is cooked properly?
The best way to check for doneness is by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink left inside. If you’re using a meat thermometer, aim for a temperature of 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken.
Creamy Mustard Chicken with Bacon and Kale for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400° F. Lay the bacon strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until crispy. Set aside to cool.
- Season the chicken all over with fine sea salt and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 12 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
- Drain the skillet, leaving 1 tablespoon of pan juices. Add bacon fat and sauté the diced onion until transparent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and savory spice blend. Sauté for another 45 seconds.
- Deglaze the pan with dry white wine or broth, scraping up bits. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until reduced by half.
- Whisk the tapioca flour into the coconut milk. Pour in this mixture, along with Dijon mustard and nutritional yeast. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add your chopped greens to the skillet, allowing them to wilt. Return the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.