Smothered chicken is the epitome of comfort food – tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich, savory sauce. This recipe elevates the classic by adding a creamy spinach, bacon, and mushroom medley for a truly decadent and satisfying meal. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to make.
What Makes This Smothered Chicken Recipe Special?
This smothered chicken recipe stands out due to its combination of textures and flavors. The juicy chicken is perfectly complemented by the creamy spinach, salty bacon, earthy mushrooms, and the rich, savory sauce that ties it all together. It’s a complete meal in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. We'll explore the nuances of each component to help you achieve perfection.
What are the Best Cuts of Chicken for Smothering?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most common and convenient choice for this recipe. They cook quickly and evenly, making them ideal for weeknight dinners. However, you can also use chicken thighs, which are more forgiving and less likely to dry out. If using thighs, adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they require a bit longer to cook through.
How to Make the Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushroom Topping?
This is where the magic happens! The creamy spinach, bacon, and mushroom topping elevates this dish beyond a simple smothered chicken.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Sauté the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the cream sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the thawed and squeezed spinach and cooked bacon. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
How to Smother the Chicken?
Once the creamy spinach mixture is ready, it's time to smother the chicken!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season and sear the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
- Add the creamy spinach mixture: Pour the creamy spinach, bacon, and mushroom mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Smother and simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What to Serve with Smothered Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Mashed potatoes: The creamy texture complements the richness of the sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots add a fresh, contrasting element.
- Rice: A simple side of rice absorbs the delicious sauce.
- Pasta: Fettuccine or other wide noodles are excellent for soaking up the extra sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can partially prepare this recipe ahead of time. The creamy spinach, bacon, and mushroom mixture can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before adding it to the chicken. The cooked chicken can also be stored for up to 3 days.
What are Some Variations of This Recipe?
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors! Consider adding:
- Different types of mushrooms: Shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms would all work well.
- Different cheeses: Gruyere, Swiss, or Fontina would be delicious additions.
- Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or thyme would enhance the flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Add a burst of bright, tangy flavor.
This smothered chicken with creamed spinach, bacon, and mushrooms is a truly satisfying and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
