Enjoy the Ultimate Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Recipe

Craving a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’ll warm you up from the inside out? Look no further than our irresistible Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms. This dish is a true symphony of textures and tastes – tender chicken smothered in a rich, creamy sauce, nestled atop a bed of garlicky, cheesy spinach and crowned with crispy bacon and sautéed mushrooms. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing your guests.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1.5 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts (4 small or 2 large, halved)
• Salt to taste
• ¼ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 10 ounces fresh spinach
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅔ cup half-and-half
• ⅔ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 4 slices cooked and chopped bacon
• 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese (or Monterey Jack with Jalapeños)

Cooking Instructions for Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach

Let’s get started on this mouthwatering Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach dish!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with the butter.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, lemon pepper, and paprika. Place the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish, flat side down. Bake for 15–20 minutes.

Make the Creamed Spinach

While the chicken is baking, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach, cover, and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted. Add the minced garlic and half-and-half, bringing the mixture to a boil. Stir in the mozzarella cheese and cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt to taste.

Cook the Mushrooms

In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 1–2 minutes until they’re golden brown.

Assemble and Bake

Remove the partially-baked chicken from the oven. Top each piece with the creamed spinach, followed by the sautéed mushrooms, chopped bacon, and a slice of Pepper Jack cheese.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. For an extra golden-brown finish, you can optionally broil the dish for 2–4 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Smothered Chicken

To ensure your Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach turns out absolutely delicious, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t overcook the chicken. Keep a close eye on the baking time to prevent the chicken from drying out.
• Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Feel free to add more or less lemon pepper, paprika, or salt to suit your preferences.
• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh spinach and mushrooms will add more flavor and texture than frozen alternatives.
• Pair the dish with complementary sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad make excellent accompaniments.

Nutritional Information

This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms dish is not only delicious but also quite nutritious. Each serving provides a good amount of protein from the chicken, as well as essential vitamins and minerals from the spinach. While it is a relatively indulgent meal, you can make it a bit healthier by using low-fat dairy products and opting for leaner cuts of chicken.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken
• Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach

FAQs About Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach

What is Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach?

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach is a delicious dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken pieces that are cooked until juicy and then smothered in a rich, savory sauce. The dish is often accompanied by creamed spinach, which is made with fresh or frozen spinach cooked in a creamy sauce, typically involving ingredients like cream, garlic, and cheese. This combination creates a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

How do you prepare the creamed spinach?

To prepare creamed spinach, start by cooking fresh or frozen spinach until wilted or heated through. In a separate pan, make a roux by melting butter and whisking in flour until well combined. Gradually add milk or cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Incorporate garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and cheese (like Parmesan or cream cheese) for flavor. Finally, mix in the cooked spinach until well coated in the creamy sauce. Serve alongside or on top of the smothered chicken.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken for Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well and can cook faster than bone-in pieces. Just ensure that they are cooked thoroughly and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Boneless chicken can also be easier to serve and eat, making it a great option for family meals.

What sides pair well with Smothered Chicken and Creamed Spinach?

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach pairs well with a variety of sides. Popular choices include mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping. For a lighter option, consider a simple salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Get ready to wow your taste buds with this irresistible Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms dish! The combination of tender chicken, creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and savory mushrooms is a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So why not whip up this comforting masterpiece tonight and enjoy a truly satisfying meal? Don’t forget to let us know how it turns out – we’d love to hear about your experience!

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