This smothered chicken dish is a decadent and comforting meal that’s sure to impress. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with a creamy spinach sauce, savory mushrooms, and crispy bacon for a delicious combination of flavors and textures.
INGREDIENTS:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 slices bacon
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
3 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.
Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet, discarding the rest.
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.
In the same skillet, add olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
Prepare the Creamed Spinach:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and onions, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamed spinach and mushroom mixture.
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Serve:
Serve the smothered chicken hot, with the creamy spinach, bacon, and mushroom sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.
This smothered chicken dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a special dinner or a comforting family meal. Enjoy!