Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

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

Directions:

  1. Season the Chicken:
    • Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Serving and Storage Tips:

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.
 
 

Variations:

1. Smothered Chicken with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

  • Extra Garlic: Double the amount of garlic in the sauce for a stronger garlic flavor. You can also add roasted garlic for a sweeter, more mellow garlic taste.
  • Parmesan Crusted: Before cooking, coat the chicken breasts in a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy, flavorful crust.

2. Smothered Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil:

  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) into the sauce for a tangy, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
  • Fresh Basil: Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves instead of spinach, adding a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the sauce.

3. Smothered Chicken with Creamy Alfredo Sauce:

  • Alfredo Twist: Replace the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with a pre-made or homemade Alfredo sauce for an even richer, cheesier dish.
  • Pasta Pairing: Serve the chicken over fettuccine or your favorite pasta to create a creamy, indulgent pasta dish.

4. Smothered Chicken with Spicy Creamed Spinach:

  • Add Spice: Kick up the heat by adding 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. The spice adds a nice contrast to the creamy sauce and pairs well with the bacon and mushrooms.
  • Pepper Jack Cheese: Substitute the Parmesan with shredded Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy, cheesy twist.

5. Smothered Chicken with Artichokes and Lemon:

  • Artichoke Hearts: Add 1 cup of drained, chopped artichoke hearts to the sauce along with the spinach. Artichokes add a tangy flavor that works well with the cream sauce.
  • Lemon Zest: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the sauce.

6. Smothered Chicken with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus:

  • Asparagus Addition: Replace the spinach with 1 cup of chopped asparagus tips. Sauté the asparagus with the mushrooms for a tender, green addition that adds a slight crunch to the dish.
  • Mushroom Variety: Use a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello, for added depth and complexity in flavor.

7. Smothered Chicken with Cajun Cream Sauce:

  • Cajun Seasoning: Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning instead of garlic and onion powder for a bold, spicy flavor. You can also add Cajun seasoning to the cream sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Andouille Sausage: For a Southern twist, add slices of cooked Andouille sausage to the dish along with the bacon. The sausage adds a smoky, spicy element that complements the Cajun flavors.

8. Smothered Chicken with Creamy Spinach and Artichoke:

  • Spinach and Artichoke Dip Style: Combine 1/2 cup of chopped artichoke hearts with the spinach in the cream sauce for a dish reminiscent of the classic spinach and artichoke dip.
  • Cheese Blend: Use a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese in the sauce for a stretchy, gooey texture that’s perfect for cheese lovers.
 
 

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

  • Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. Thighs are more flavorful and tend to be juicier, though they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. However, keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich and may not thicken as much.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

  • Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of cream or milk to the sauce if it thickens too much.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

  • Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Sauté these along with the mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

  • Yes, to make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.

6. How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

  • To prevent the chicken from drying out, avoid overcooking it. Sear the chicken until it’s just cooked through, then remove it from the skillet while you prepare the sauce. The chicken will finish cooking when you return it to the skillet to simmer in the sauce.

This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for any night of the week. The creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan and Italian seasoning, elevates the tender chicken to a new level of comfort food heaven. With the added depth from sautéed mushrooms and the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon, this dish is both hearty and delicious. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy this comforting dish with loved ones and savor every bite!

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Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms


  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

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

  1. Season the Chicken:
    • Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.