Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, Mushrooms

Here’s a delicious, detailed recipe for Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms — rich, comforting, and perfect for a hearty meal.

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🐔 Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon & Mushrooms

🕒 Total Time: ~45 minutes

Serves: 4

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🧄 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped

• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white button)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

• 1 tbsp butter (optional)

For the Cream Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper, to taste

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🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and nearly cooked through (internal temp ~160°F/71°C).

5. Remove and set aside.

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2. Cook the Bacon:

1. In the same skillet, add chopped bacon.

2. Cook until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

3. Discard excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pan.

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3. Sauté Mushrooms and Spinach:

1. Add mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until browned and tender.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

3. Add butter if needed, then toss in the spinach. Cook until wilted (1–2 minutes).

4. Remove everything from the skillet and set aside.

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4. Make the Cream Sauce:

1. In the same pan, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.

2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.

4. Let the sauce thicken slightly (about 3–4 minutes). Season with salt & pepper to taste.

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5. Combine & Smother:

1. Return the chicken to the pan.

2. Spoon the mushroom-spinach mixture over the top of the chicken.

3. Sprinkle crispy bacon on top.

4. Cover and simmer everything together for another 5–7 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (165°F/74°C internal temp).

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🥖 Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, buttered noodles, or cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a bright finish.

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🔁 Make Ahead & Storage

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.