Indulge in the rich flavors of Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms! This one-pan dish combines tender chicken breasts with creamy spinach, savory bacon, and earthy mushrooms, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of flavors—from the crispy bacon to the creamy spinach and juicy chicken—creates a satisfying experience with every bite. Plus, it all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamed Spinach:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 3 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Tongs or spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamed Spinach
- Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are browned and tender.
- Add Spinach and Garlic: Add the garlic and fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach wilts down, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheeseuntil melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture over the top.
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle the crispy bacon on top for added flavor and crunch.
- Heat Through: Allow everything to heat together for about 2-3 minutes on low heat until warmed through.
- Serve: Serve the smothered chicken hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfect Smothered Chicken
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables, like sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes, for extra flavor.
- Cheese Choices: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for variation in flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a luxurious dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for entertaining. With its creamy sauce and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home!
Stay Connected
For more delicious and easy recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and share your Smothered Chicken creations with us using #SmotheredChicken. Happy cooking!