This tasty smothered chicken is packed with flavor, featuring creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and hearty mushrooms. It’s a dish that really brings comfort to the table!
I love how the rich sauce pairs perfectly with the chicken. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Serve it with rice or pasta for a full meal. You’ll want seconds, trust me! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, providing a nice, tender base. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully too!
Bacon: The bacon adds a lovely crunch and smoky flavor. You can use turkey bacon or omit it completely for a lighter version. Just add a splash more oil for cooking.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms offer great flavor, but you can substitute button mushrooms or even use portobellos for a meatier texture.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the star here. If you use frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half can be used. Alternatively, coconut milk gives a unique flavor while keeping it creamy for dairy-free diets.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan is fantastic for adding richness. Pecorino Romano can be a flavorful substitute if you want something with a stronger taste.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is a breeze! Here are some steps to follow:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Searing the chicken on both sides gives it a beautiful color and locks in moisture, so don’t skip this step!
- Once added back to the sauce, cover the skillet to help the chicken cook through without drying out.
By following these tips, you’ll serve up juicy, flavorful chicken every time!
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smothered chicken dish will take about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the ingredients, and then about 20 to 25 minutes cooking everything in one skillet. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika if you like a bit of smoky flavor. This will help build a good base of taste!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and golden, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the delicious bacon fat behind for the next step. Place the cooked bacon on paper towels to drain excess grease.
4. Sauté the Mushrooms:
Now, add the tablespoon of butter to the skillet with reserved bacon fat. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they’re browned and tender, approximately 5-6 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking!
5. Add the Garlic and Spinach:
Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. After that, throw in the chopped spinach, stirring it in until it’s wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir well to mix everything together, and bring it to a gentle simmer. You’ll want the sauce to bubble just a bit!
7. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Now, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it’s melted and the sauce thickens slightly. This creamy sauce is going to be so rich and delicious!
8. Combine Everything:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to nestle them into the creamy sauce. Then, spoon the sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and crispy bacon over the top of the chicken for extra flavor.
9. Finishing Touch:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes. This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, serve the smothered chicken warm, generously spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!
Enjoy this rich and creamy smothered chicken dish that combines savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and luscious creamed spinach!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken fully before cooking. The safest way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight, or you can quickly thaw it by submerging the sealed bag in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce seems too thick.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk can work well as a substitute!
