Creamy Smothered Chicken Recipe with Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms – Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s something magical about a dish that’s packed with layers of flavor and creamy goodness. This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is the perfect comfort meal, combining juicy chicken breasts with a rich, velvety sauce made of sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and creamed spinach. The end result? A dish that’s indulgent yet simple enough for a cozy night in.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first discovered this recipe on a Facebook page called Recipes by Lisa, and I couldn’t wait to share this amazing recipe with you! This dish quickly became a family favorite, and I’m sure it’ll be a hit in your kitchen as well.

What makes this dish truly shine is how all the flavors come together – the smoky bacon, the earthy mushrooms, and the creamy spinach blend into the perfect sauce to smother the chicken. It’s the kind of meal that feels luxurious without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Cultural Origins & Fun Facts:

While the idea of "smothered" food comes from Southern cuisine, which is known for its rich and hearty meals, this recipe adds a twist with its creamy spinach and mushrooms. Southern-style smothered dishes are often slow-cooked or braised to tender perfection, allowing the sauce to fully infuse the meat with flavor. This dish borrows that concept but adds a touch of elegance with a creamy, cheesy sauce that will make your taste buds sing.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika on both sides. This spice blend will give the chicken a bold flavor as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts until they are golden brown on each side and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms:
   Using the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them until they become soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamed Spinach:
   Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add Cheese and Bacon:
   Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until they melt into the sauce, making it rich and creamy. Add the crumbled bacon back into the skillet, mixing it all together.
6. Smother the Chicken:
   Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully smothered in the deliciousness.
7. Serve:
   Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb all the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered pasta. The creaminess of the sauce makes it perfect for soaking up with any starchy side dish, elevating your meal to the next level!

Cooking Tips:

• For extra flavor: Use smoked bacon for a deeper, more robust flavor.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and bacon, and use sautéed tofu or extra mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese options: If you prefer a sharper flavor, swap out mozzarella for sharp cheddar or gouda!

Call to Action:

Did you enjoy this recipe? I’d love to hear how your version of this Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms turned out! Leave a comment below and share this recipe with your friends. Don’t forget to follow me for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes that will bring joy to your dinner table.