In a 6-quart Dutch oven or large, heavy saucepan, cook bacon over medium
heat 3 to 5 minutes or until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside. Add chicken to bacon drippings and brown over medium heat, turning several times to brown evenly.
Remove chicken; set aside. In same Dutch oven, add mushrooms and garlic; cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 4 minutes. Return chicken
and bacon to the pot, then add soup mix blended with water, wine or broth,
and thyme. Bring to a boil over high heat; reduce heat to low and simmer,
covered, for 35 to 45 minutes or until chicken is done. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serves 4.