This Chicken Smothered in Creamy Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is an indulgent, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any dinner occasion. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce loaded with spinach, crispy bacon, and savory mushrooms. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat and heat over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced mushrooms. Sauté over medium heat until the mushrooms are golden and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Cream
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is fully thawed and drained before adding. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is thickened and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken Doneness: Make sure the chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Spinach: You can substitute kale for spinach if desired. Just make sure to cook it a bit longer as kale is more fibrous.
- Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms work best for this dish, but you can use portobello or shiitake mushrooms for a more earthy flavor.
Variations
1. Cheesy Chicken Smothered in Spinach and Bacon
For extra cheesiness, sprinkle the chicken with mozzarella or cheddar cheese before returning it to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt over the chicken.
2. Chicken Smothered in Creamy Garlic and Herb Sauce
Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the sauce for an herby twist. You can also use roasted garlic for a deeper garlic flavor.
3. Low-Carb Chicken Smothered in Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
For a low-carb version, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk and use sugar-free bacon.
4. Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach
For a Mediterranean spin, stir in sundried tomatoes with the spinach for a tangy, sweet burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
This dish is naturally keto-friendly! Just make sure the bacon and cream are low-carb and keto-compliant. Pair the chicken with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables to keep it low-carb and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the sauce over low heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative to breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
While the chicken freezes well, the cream sauce may change texture when thawed. If you plan to freeze it, consider freezing the chicken separately and making the sauce fresh when you’re ready to serve.
This Chicken Smothered in Creamy Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a delicious, comforting dish that combines rich flavors and textures into one irresistible meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Give it a try and watch it become a regular favorite in your household!
