Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

For the Creamed Spinach:

• 4 cups fresh spinach (washed and roughly chopped)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for richness)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (for a creamy texture)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds flavor and creaminess)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Bacon and Mushrooms:

• 4 slices bacon (chopped)
• 1 cup mushrooms (sliced; button, cremini, or your favorite type)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a light dusting of garlic powder (if desired). Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan.

Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, keeping it warm.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden, about 4-5 minutes. Once the bacon is crisped, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Leave a bit of the rendered bacon fat in the pan to cook the mushrooms and spinach.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same pan, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them in the bacon fat (add a bit of olive oil if needed) for about 4-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms become soft and browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the mushrooms are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside with the bacon.

Step 4: Make the Creamed Spinach

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Next, add the fresh spinach to the pan, cooking until it wilts down, which should take about 3 minutes.

Once the spinach is wilted, add the heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well to combine until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Once the creamed spinach is ready, add the cooked bacon and mushrooms back into the pan. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Now, return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy spinach mixture. Spoon some of the creamed spinach, bacon, and mushrooms over the top of the chicken. Let everything simmer together for another 3-4 minutes to ensure the flavors meld.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the chicken to serving plates and spoon the creamed spinach, mushrooms, and bacon over the chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Why You’ll Love This Smothered Chicken Recipe

• Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The creamed spinach sauce with bacon and mushrooms provides a deliciously creamy base that perfectly complements the juicy chicken.
• Texture Contrast: The crispy bacon adds a crunch, while the soft spinach and tender chicken create a satisfying contrast in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this smothered chicken recipe is easy to make but looks and tastes gourmet.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep because the flavors intensify as they sit, making it even more delicious the next day.

Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach will give the dish the best texture and flavor. If you prefer to use frozen spinach, be sure to drain it well before adding it to the sauce to avoid excess moisture.
• Chicken Variations: If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful cut of meat.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as onions or bell peppers, to the creamed spinach mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the creamed spinach sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a filling dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect side to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.
• Rice: Serve over a bed of white or brown rice to absorb the sauce and add texture.
• Roasted Vegetables: Lightly roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans would add a nice balance to the richness of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is the kind of dish that will make everyone at the table smile. With tender chicken, a luscious creamy spinach sauce, and the added richness of bacon and mushrooms, this recipe is the perfect combination of indulgent flavors. It’s comforting, flavorful, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress! So, grab your ingredients and give this irresistible recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!