If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying, and flavorful meal, then Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is the perfect dish for you! This recipe combines tender chicken breasts, creamy spinach, savory bacon, and sautéed mushrooms, all topped with melty cheese, making it an irresistible dish for anyone who loves rich and flavorful food.

 

 

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1.5 lbs skinless, boneless chicken breast (4 small or 2 large, halved)

• Salt to taste

• ¼ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon paprika

 

For the Creamed Spinach:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 10 oz fresh spinach

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• ⅔ cup half and half

• ⅔ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

 

Other Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 4 oz mushrooms, sliced

• 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped

• 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese or Monterey Jack cheese with jalapenos

 

How to Make Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Butter the bottom of your baking dish (I used a 13x9x4-inch deep casserole dish). Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and a small amount of paprika. Place the chicken breasts flat side down in the greased baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until cooked through.

3. Make the Creamed Spinach:

While the chicken is baking, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook for just 1-2 minutes, covered, until the spinach wilts. Once the spinach is wilted, remove it from the heat.

Add the minced garlic, half and half, and bring it to a boil. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese and continue stirring on high heat until the cheese begins to melt (about 30 seconds). Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy (about 1 minute). Season with salt to taste, and remove from heat.

4. Cook the Mushrooms:

In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them on high-medium heat for 1-2 minutes until they caramelize. Avoid salting the mushrooms at this stage, as this can prevent them from caramelizing properly.

5. Smother the Chicken:

Once the chicken has finished baking, remove it from the oven. Top each chicken breast with a generous portion of the creamed spinach, followed by the chopped cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and broken slices of Pepper Jack cheese. Place the baking dish back in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 15-20 more minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked, no longer pink in the center, and the juices run clear.

If you prefer a crispy, golden topping on your cheese, broil the chicken for the last 2-4 minutes, but be careful not to burn the cheese.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once everything is perfectly baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve your Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete, delicious meal.

 

Calories and Nutritional Information:

One serving of Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms contains approximately 400-450 calories, depending on the size of the chicken breasts used and the amount of cheese added. This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and bacon, making it a hearty and filling meal.

 

Best Time to Serve:

This dish is perfect for dinner, especially when you’re craving something rich and indulgent. It’s a great option for family gatherings, holidays, or a cozy dinner at home. It can also be served as a main dish for a special occasion.

 

Tips for Saving Energy and Using Kitchen Appliances Efficiently:

To save energy while making this dish, you can use an air fryer or convection oven to cook the chicken. These appliances heat up more quickly than traditional ovens, allowing you to save both time and energy. If you're using a regular oven, try to avoid opening the oven door too frequently as this can cause temperature fluctuations, making your oven work harder.

Using a slow cooker for the creamed spinach can also save energy and time. You can prepare the spinach ahead of time and keep it warm until you’re ready to assemble the dish.

 

Health Considerations:

• Who can benefit from this dish? This recipe is rich in protein and can be a great choice for those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy, balanced diet. The spinach provides a good source of vitamins and minerals, making this meal nutritious and filling.

• Who should avoid this dish? While this dish is delicious, it may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, as it contains cheese and cream. People who are sensitive to spicy foods may want to substitute the Pepper Jack cheese with a milder cheese, such as mozzarella.

Additionally, individuals who are on a low-fat or low-calorie diet may want to enjoy this dish in moderation or consider lighter substitutions for the cream and cheese.

 

Conclusion:

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a fantastic meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With layers of flavors and textures, it’s a comforting dish that combines protein-rich chicken, creamy spinach, smoky bacon, and savory mushrooms. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a filling meal after a long day, this dish is a go-to option.

Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking, and enjoy the indulgence of this savory chicken recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Enjoy!