Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the dredging mixture by combining flour, breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, and black pepper on a large plate. Pre-measure gravy components for efficiency.
- In a skillet over medium-low heat, cook bacon strips until crisp on both sides. Transfer bacon to a plate and reserve 2 to 4 tablespoons of clear drippings. Wipe skillet clean of blackened bits if necessary.
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner fillets. Place plastic wrap over chicken and pound to approximately 3/4-inch thickness.
- Pat chicken slices dry with paper towels, then thoroughly coat in flour mixture, pressing to ensure coating adheres in all areas.
- Return reserved bacon drippings to skillet and add enough vegetable oil to come halfway up sides of chicken. Heat over medium-high until shimmering. Fry chicken in batches, two pieces at a time, for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden. Set aside on a plate.
- Discard frying oil and clean out dark residue with paper towel, leaving golden-brown bits (fond) in the pan.
- Melt butter in same pan over medium heat and scrape up fond using silicone spatula. Gradually sprinkle in flour, whisking continuously to create smooth paste.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and half and half in increments, allowing mixture to thicken between each addition.
- Stir in beef bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, sage, and Kitchen Bouquet if using.
- Bring mixture to light boil, then lower heat to gentle simmer. Return chicken and accumulated juices to pan.
- Roughly chop cooked bacon and scatter over chicken. Cover pan partially and cook on low for 10 to 15 minutes until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
- Finish with chopped parsley garnish and serve with creamy mashed potatoes if desired.
Notes
Chicken must reach 165 degrees F internal temperature for food safety. Reserve bacon drippings for enhanced flavor. Pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking. Keep golden-brown bits in pan for richer gravy. Pat chicken dry before dredging for better coating adhesion.
