
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
Description
This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is the epitome of comfort food. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned and seared to perfection, then smothered in a rich, creamy sauce loaded with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and crispy bacon. This dish is both indulgent and satisfying, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With layers of flavor and a creamy texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just enjoy a comforting meal, this smothered chicken dish has you covered.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken breasts over medium heat, allowing each side to brown and cook through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until they soften and release their juices. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spinach:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts and crispy bacon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through.
- Serve the smothered chicken hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Pair with Sides: This Smothered Chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, as these sides soak up the rich, creamy sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. This not only adds flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
- Family-Style Serving: Serve the chicken directly from the skillet to keep the sauce warm and inviting. This family-style presentation is perfect for casual dinners and encourages everyone to dig in.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet. Be aware that the cream sauce may separate slightly after freezing, but you can whisk it back together as it reheats.
- Meal Prep Tip: If you’re making this dish for meal prep, consider storing the chicken, bacon, and sauce separately from any side dishes. This way, everything can be reheated and served fresh without compromising the texture of the sauce or sides.