Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive? This smothered chicken with creamed spinach, bacon, and mushrooms is the perfect choice. With juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and flavorful mushrooms, this recipe combines indulgence and nourishment in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 6 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Steps to Make Smothered Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble the bacon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add the mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until browned and tender. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Creamed Spinach:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Add nutmeg for extra flavor, if desired.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamed spinach over each piece of chicken. Top with sautéed mushrooms and crumbled bacon.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the dish simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together. Serve warm with your choice of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms elevate the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamed spinach for a kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for many diets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of creamy spinach, savory bacon, and earthy mushrooms creates an indulgent dish.
- Easy to Customize: Add your favorite cheeses or swap spinach for kale for a different twist.
- Impressive Yet Simple: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Balanced Dish: Protein-packed chicken paired with nutrient-rich spinach makes for a wholesome meal.
This smothered chicken with creamed spinach, bacon, and mushrooms is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to impress. It’s a versatile recipe that works as a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for special occasions. Try it tonight and treat yourself to a flavorful, hearty meal!
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