Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, Mushrooms

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that will have your whole family asking for seconds, look no further than this Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a rich and creamy sauce, featuring crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and nutritious spinach. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors that will leave everyone satisfied. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms (any type)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

Directions:

1. Cook the Bacon: Heat a heavy skillet, such as cast iron, over medium-high heat. Cook bacon until crisp, about 4 minutes per side. Remove bacon with tongs to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve about 2 teaspoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
2. Sauté Onions and Mushrooms: Return the skillet to medium-high heat. Sauté onions and mushrooms in the reserved bacon grease until golden brown, about 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a dish and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté chicken thighs for about 8 minutes on each side until nicely browned but not cooked through. Remove chicken and place it in the dish with the mushrooms and onions.
4. Prepare the Creamed Spinach Sauce: In the same skillet, add spinach and sauté for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in mozzarella cheese until melted.
5. Combine and Simmer: Chop the cooked bacon and stir it, along with the sautéed mushrooms and onions, into the sauce. Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, tucking them into the sauce. Continue to cook over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes longer.
6. Serve: Serve the smothered chicken directly from the pan, ensuring everyone gets a generous helping of the creamy sauce. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips

• Accompaniments: This Smothered Chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A side of steamed or roasted vegetables, like green beans or broccoli, adds a fresh, healthy touch.
• Garnishing: For added flavor and color, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley, thyme, or basil.
• Presentation: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation, or transfer to a serving dish for a more formal setting. The creamy sauce looks inviting and can be spooned generously over the chicken and sides.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you plan to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this delectable Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms at its best and keep it fresh for future meals.

Variations:

1. Different Greens: Swap out the spinach for other leafy greens such as kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a different flavor and texture.
2. Cheese Alternatives: Use different types of cheese based on your preference. Try sharp cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan for varied flavors.
3. Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the dish’s nutritional profile and add color.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
5. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to adjust the flavor profile to your liking.
6. Bacon Substitutes: Use turkey bacon, pancetta, or prosciutto if you prefer a different type of bacon or a lower-fat option.
7. Mushroom Varieties: Try different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini, or portobello, to change the texture and taste of the dish.
8. Cream Alternatives: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, cashew cream, or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version.
9. Pasta Addition: Mix in some cooked pasta, such as penne or fusilli, to make it a heartier meal.
10. Chicken Variants: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are not overcooked.
11. Different Meats: Swap out chicken for other proteins like pork chops, turkey cutlets, or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
12. Creamy Sauce Variations: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce into the cream sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
13. Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds to the sauce for a delightful crunch.
14. Wine Infusion: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the cream and broth for a nuanced depth of flavor.
15. Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter, tangier version of the sauce.
16. Spicy Mushrooms: Saute mushrooms with a bit of chili powder or smoked paprika for a spicier version.
17. Bacon Alternatives: Try using prosciutto or pancetta for a different flavor profile.
18. Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and bacon, and use a mix of hearty vegetables like artichoke hearts and bell peppers for a vegetarian dish.
19. Herb Infusions: Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic boost.
20. Cheesy Variations: Mix in a bit of cream cheese or Gruyère cheese into the sauce for extra creaminess and flavor.

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   • Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through and tender.
2. What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
   • If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, you can use any heavy-bottomed oven-safe skillet or even a regular baking dish. Adjust the cooking method as needed.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point before baking. Store it in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.
4. Can I freeze Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms?
   • Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   • Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to give it a spicy kick.
6. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
   • Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
7. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   • Alternatives include coconut milk, cashew cream, or half-and-half for a lighter version.
8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.
9. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   • The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
10. What can I serve with this dish?
    • This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or a simple green salad. It’s also great with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

These FAQs should help address common questions and provide additional guidance for preparing and enjoying Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms.