ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Add the mushrooms to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until they are golden and tender.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted (if using fresh) or heated through (if using frozen).
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, allowing the sauce to simmer for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Sprinkle the cooked bacon on top.
- Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the smothered chicken hot, spooning extra sauce over the top. Garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken
- Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and mushrooms for the best flavor, but frozen works in a pinch.
- Thick Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
- Custom Add-Ins: Add sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or mozzarella for additional flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Starchy Sides: Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Veggies: Pair with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp side salad.
- Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for sopping up every drop of the delicious sauce.
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère, fontina, or mozzarella in place of Parmesan.
- Protein Twist: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless pork chops or turkey cutlets.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of juicy chicken, creamy spinach, earthy mushrooms, and crispy bacon creates a symphony of flavors and textures. The Parmesan-based sauce ties everything together, delivering a rich and indulgent experience that’s balanced by the fresh spinach. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and destined to become a family favorite.
The Bottom Line
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is the perfect dish for those moments when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s easy, versatile, and bursting with flavor.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal to wow your guests, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So grab your skillet, and let this indulgent dish bring joy to your table tonight!
ADVERTISEMENT
