Easy Clam Chowder

Name: Easy Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 5 strips bacon; 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 garlic cloves (, minced); 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour (, plus 1-2 Tablespoons more for a slurry if needed); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 (6.5-ounce) cans chopped clams (, juices reserved); 1 bay leaf; 2 russet potatoes (, peeled and chopped); 2 cups half-and-half (, warmed); Kosher salt (, to taste); Ground black pepper (, to taste); 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley