Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to perfection, then topped with a rich combination of creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and savory mushrooms. This dish is easy enough for a weeknight meal but also impressive enough for special occasions. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Smothered Chicken
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet.
- Sear the Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Heat over medium-high heat, then add the chicken breasts. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Add Garlic and Spinach: Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
- Serve: Let the dish simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Perfect Smothered Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy and tender.
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best for this recipe, but you can substitute with frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it well.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Smothered Chicken: Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese on top of the chicken before simmering for an extra cheesy version.
- Herb-Infused: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the cream sauce for added flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the smothered chicken over cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli for a low-carb meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs often take a bit longer to cook through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover smothered chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the chicken, reheat the sauce, and combine them.
Serving Suggestions
- With Mashed Potatoes: Serve the smothered chicken over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With Pasta: Pair with cooked pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, for a comforting meal.
- With Vegetables: Serve with steamed vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or broccoli for a balanced meal.
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, savory mushrooms, crispy bacon, and creamy spinach sauce, this meal is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s a dish that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare.
Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy this delicious meal with your loved ones. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete and hearty dinner!
