Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms:
A Decadent and Flavorful Meal
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a rich, flavorful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms. This hearty meal is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Packed with savory flavors and textures, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
- Deliciously Creamy: The creamy spinach and bacon sauce smothering the chicken adds richness and depth to the dish.
- Packed with Flavor: From the crispy bacon to the earthy mushrooms and savory chicken, every bite is full of flavor.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: A unique twist on classic smothered chicken, this dish offers a sophisticated yet comforting take on traditional favorites.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday or a family dinner, this dish is perfect for impressing your guests.
Ingredients
for Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 2 cups frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional, for the creamed spinach)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving a bit of bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
To the skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamed Spinach
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly. Add the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes (if using fresh spinach). Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy spinach mixture over the top. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the chicken and spinach. Let everything simmer together for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Plate the smothered chicken and serve it with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best for this recipe as it wilts beautifully and adds a vibrant color. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- Crispy Bacon: For the best texture, make sure the bacon gets nice and crispy before removing it from the skillet.
- Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a little bit of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it. Alternatively, reduce the sauce for a few extra minutes for a more concentrated flavor.
- Add More Veggies: You can add additional vegetables like artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes to the creamed spinach for added flavor and variety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They will have a richer flavor and slightly different texture, but they work wonderfully in this dish.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best to serve this dish fresh, you can prep the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken, bacon, and vegetables separately, and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat and assemble the dish.
Q: Can I make this dish low-carb? A: Yes! You can make this dish lower in carbs by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a lower-carb cheese alternative. Also, serve it with a low-carb side, such as zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.
Q: Can I make the creamed spinach without cream? A: Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a lighter alternative to heavy cream. Both options will still provide a creamy texture with less fat.
Conclusion
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a rich, savory, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and mushrooms is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or a weekday meal, this dish is simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a favorite.