Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a decadent and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of tender chicken, creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and savory mushrooms is sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe is easy to make and will impress your family or guests with its rich flavors and comforting texture.
Ingredients:
Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1.5 lb chicken breast, skinless and boneless (4 small chicken breasts or 2 large chicken breasts, halved)
- Salt, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Creamed Spinach:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 10 oz fresh spinach
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅔ cup half and half
- ⅔ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese or Monterey Jack Cheese with jalapeños
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and paprika on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Preparing the Creamed Spinach:
- Sauté the Spinach:
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and garlic, and sauté until the spinach is wilted and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Cream and Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the half and half to the skillet and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cooking the Mushrooms and Bacon:
- Cook the Mushrooms:
- In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Bacon:
- If the bacon is not already cooked, cook it in the skillet until crispy. Once cooked, chop it into small pieces.
Assembling the Dish:
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon the creamed spinach over the chicken breasts. Top with the cooked mushrooms and chopped bacon.
- Add Cheese:
- Place a slice of Pepper Jack cheese or Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeños on top of each chicken breast.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving:
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped bacon or fresh herbs if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Options: You can use other types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Spinach: If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
- Mushrooms: Feel free to use your favorite type of mushrooms, such as cremini, button, or portobello.
- Bacon: Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the dish just before baking. Store the cooked chicken, creamed spinach, mushrooms, and bacon separately in the refrigerator.
Q: What should I serve with this dish? A: This dish pairs well with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes also make excellent sides.
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy spinach, savory mushrooms, and crispy bacon elevate the chicken to a whole new level. Easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich and hearty flavors of this delightful dish!
