Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

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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:

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
  2. 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:

  1. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter and sauté the garlic for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  2. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes, or until they are softened and browned.
  3. 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:

  1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet with the mushroom and bacon mixture. Spoon the creamed spinach over each piece of chicken.
  2. 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!

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