Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a rich and indulgent dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, savory creamed spinach, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms. The creamy sauce smothers the chicken, creating a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for dinner. This dish combines bold flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and delicious experience for any occasion. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Origin:
This dish is a modern take on the classic “smothered” style of cooking, popular in Southern cuisine, where meats are cooked in a flavorful gravy or sauce. The addition of creamed spinach, bacon, and mushrooms creates a sophisticated twist on this comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Creamed Spinach:
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bacon and Mushroom Topping:
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamed Spinach:
- In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter and sauté the garlic for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Prepare the Bacon and Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes, or until they are softened and browned.
- Add the butter, chicken broth (or wine), and heavy cream. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with thyme (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet with the mushroom and bacon mixture. Spoon the creamed spinach over each piece of chicken.
- Let everything simmer together for 3-4 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld together.
Tips for Success:
- For extra crispy bacon, cook it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes before adding it to the dish.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lower-fat version of the cream.
- If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute them with onions or bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful, juicier result.
Recommendations:
- Serve this dish with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complement the rich, creamy sauce.
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would add a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the dish.
- Pair it with a glass of Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir to balance the richness of the cream and bacon.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 4 servings):
- Calories: ~500
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a deliciously decadent meal that combines savory flavors with a creamy texture, making it an ideal choice for dinner. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish will surely satisfy your cravings!
- Homemade Cheesy Pizza Orzo
Homemade Cheesy Pizza Orzo: A Comforting Weeknight Favorite If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly combines the flavors of pizza and pasta into one cheesy, satisfying meal, Homemade Cheesy Pizza Orzo is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender orzo pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a variety … Read more - Homemade Banana Pudding: A Creamy, Nostalgic Delight
Homemade Banana Pudding: A Creamy, Nostalgic Delight There’s something magical about Homemade Banana Pudding. This dessert has graced countless family tables and continues to evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. With layers of silky vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, it’s a dessert that brings smiles and sweet memories with every bite. Perfect … Read more - Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Bake Dip
Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Bake Dip If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, look no further than Cheesy Shrimp & Crab Bake Dip. Imagine a warm, melty, cheesy dip brimming with tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a hint of spices that will have everyone reaching for a slice of toasted baguette or crackers. … Read more - Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab
Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab: A Decadent Ocean Delight If you’ve ever wanted to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests with something truly luxurious, this Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab is your golden ticket. Creamy, cheesy, and layered with succulent shrimp and delicate crab meat, this lasagna isn’t just a meal — … Read more - Cheesy Beef Enchilada Rice
Cheesy Beef Enchilada Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Food in One Skillet If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the bold flavors of enchiladas with the comforting heartiness of a rice dish, then Cheesy Beef Enchilada Rice is the recipe for you. This all-in-one meal brings together tender ground beef, perfectly seasoned rice, melty Colby Jack cheese, … Read more - Homemade Chili Cheese Dip
Homemade Chili Cheese Dip If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty chili, look no further than Homemade Chili Cheese Dip. This warm, indulgent dish is perfect for game days, parties, or even a cozy night in. It’s easy to prepare, requires just a few ingredients, and guarantees smiles … Read more - Mexican Salmon Patties
Mexican Salmon Patties If you’re looking for a flavorful twist on traditional salmon patties, these Mexican Salmon Patties are a must-try. Packed with bold flavors, colorful ingredients, and a delightful mix of textures, they transform a simple canned salmon into a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. With a crispy exterior, tender interior, and a … Read more - Bubblegum Marshmallow Fudge
Bubblegum Marshmallow Fudge: A Sweet Treat That Melts in Your Mouth Introduction: Bubblegum Marshmallow Fudge When it comes to indulgent, colorful sweets that bring a smile to both kids and adults, Bubblegum Marshmallow Fudge is a must-try. This decadent treat combines the creamy richness of white chocolate with the chewy, nostalgic charm of marshmallows, all … Read more - Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs
Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs – A Comfort Food Classic Few meals feel as warm, cozy, and satisfying as Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs. This dish brings together tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken drumsticks, a rich and creamy gravy, and slow-cooked vegetables that soak up every bit of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, … Read more