Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, Mushrooms

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Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, Mushrooms

Imagine a dish that combines the comfort of a home-cooked meal with the elegance of a restaurant favorite. Our Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is exactly that. This recipe brings together tender chicken, rich and creamy spinach, savory bacon, and earthy mushrooms into a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of cheese, bacon, and creamy spinach creates a rich and flavorful topping that perfectly complements the juicy chicken breast. Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to impress your family or guests!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• 13×9-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Pan
• Brush for butter

Ingredients:

Chicken:

• 1.5-pound chicken breast, skinless, boneless (4 small chicken breasts or 2 large chicken breasts, halved)
• ¼ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tbsp butter
• ¼ tsp paprika
• Salt, to taste

Creamed Spinach:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ⅔ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ⅔ cup half and half
• 10 ounces fresh spinach

Other Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
• 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese or Monterey Jack Cheese with Jalapenos
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush a 13×9-inch baking dish with melted butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt, paprika, and lemon pepper, ensuring each piece is well coated. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish, fatty side down. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let them rest at room temperature.

Step 2: Make the Creamed Spinach

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the spinach and cook for about a minute until wilted. Remove from the skillet. In the same skillet, add half & half and minced garlic. Stir until combined and bring to a boil. Add the shredded cheese and stir until completely melted. Return the spinach to the skillet and cook for another minute. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

In a pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the mushroom slices and sauté until soft and caramelized.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Top each chicken breast with creamed spinach, crumbled bacon, mushrooms, and a slice of cheese. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes. Broil for about 2 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Do not overcook the spinach; it should be wilted but still vibrant.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting consistency.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like gouda or cheddar, for a unique twist. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the creamed spinach for a subtle depth of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is high in protein and rich in calcium and iron, thanks to the cheese and spinach. It’s a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, thaw the spinach and drain any excess water before using.

How can I make this dish spicier? Add more paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Our Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is the perfect combination of comfort and sophistication. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you add to the recipe!

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