If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try the Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Bacon Recipe. This creamy, savory delight combines tender chicken breasts smothered in luscious creamed spinach, earthy mushrooms, and crispy bacon, all crowned with melty cheese. Every bite is packed with flavor and texture, making it an absolute favorite for cozy dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Bacon Recipe calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with comfort and taste. Each item plays a special role, from the juicy chicken to the rich creaminess of the half-and-half and the smoky crunch of the bacon.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a rich base for cooking the chicken and enhances flavor.
- 1.5 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing a tender and juicy canvas.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning: Offers a bright, citrusy kick to balance the richness.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: Gives subtle warmth and a lovely color.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Used for sautéing without overwhelming flavors.
- 10 ounces fresh spinach: Brings earthy greens and vibrant color to the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a savory depth that complements all ingredients.
- â…” cup half-and-half: Creates the creamy, smooth texture for the spinach sauce.
- â…” cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the spinach mixture for extra indulgence.
- 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy, meaty texture to balance the richness.
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped: Provides smoky crunch and irresistible flavor.
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese: Adds a spicy, melty topping that pulls everything together wonderfully.
How to Make Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and paprika — this step sets the flavor foundation. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set aside to keep warm. The slightly crispy outside and juicy inside will be the perfect base for all the toppings that follow.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamed Spinach
Using the same skillet, pour in a tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic first, letting its aroma wake up the pan, then add the fresh spinach. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts down beautifully. Next, pour in the half-and-half followed by the shredded mozzarella, stirring gently until the sauce becomes velvety and smooth. This creamy spinach mixture will coat the chicken with rich flavor and lovely texture.
Step 3: Cook Mushrooms and Bacon
Grab another skillet and heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook them for about 5 minutes until tender and releasing their earthy goodness. Stir in the crispy bacon pieces, combining the smoky flavor with the mushrooms perfectly. This mixture adds a delightful contrast in both texture and taste to the creamy spinach layer.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Now for the fun part! Place the cooked chicken breasts on serving plates. Spoon a generous portion of the creamed spinach over each piece, then top with the savory mushroom and bacon mixture. Finally, crown each chicken breast with a slice of Pepper Jack cheese. Let the cheese melt slightly on top before serving to achieve that irresistible gooey finish. This layered combination is not only beautiful but truly mouthwatering with every bite.
How to Serve Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives make excellent garnishes for this dish, adding a burst of color and a fresh contrast to the rich flavors. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also bring a touch of heat that complements the Pepper Jack cheese beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, classic sides such as buttery mashed potatoes, roasted garlic green beans, or fluffy rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette that balances the richness on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken in rustic cast-iron skillets for a cozy, family-style presentation. Alternatively, plating the chicken on bedded fresh spinach leaves enhances its fresh appeal. For a fun twist, shred the chicken after cooking and use the toppings as a filling for warm tortillas or over toasted baguette slices for an informal gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Bacon Recipe into airtight containers and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic choice for quick, satisfying meals during your busy week.
Freezing
If you want to keep leftovers longer, this dish freezes well. Separate portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature to prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwaving is convenient but cover the dish and heat in short intervals to avoid overheating the cheese and cream sauce. Adding a splash of milk or half-and-half can revive the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Pepper Jack adds a lovely spicy kick, you can substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or even mozzarella for more creaminess. Cheddar or Gouda can also bring unique tastes depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe as written is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t include any flour or breading. Just be sure that any seasonings or processed ingredients like bacon are gluten-free to be safe.
Can I swap fresh spinach for frozen spinach?
Fresh spinach works best for texture and flavor, but you can use frozen spinach if you squeeze out excess moisture after thawing. This will help maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce without becoming watery.
What if I don’t have half-and-half—can I use something else?
If you don’t have half-and-half, you can mix equal parts whole milk and heavy cream as a substitute. Alternatively, a creamy non-dairy milk like cashew milk could work, but it might slightly change the taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or omit the bacon?
Definitely! Leaving out the bacon still yields a delicious dish with plenty of flavor from the mushrooms, cheese, and seasoned spinach. For added texture and protein, consider adding toasted nuts or sautéed tofu as alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Bacon Recipe has quickly become a beloved go-to meal that’s both comforting and impressive. Its rich layers of flavor and creamy texture make every bite feel special, yet it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. I encourage you to give this delightful recipe a try soon — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
ThisSmothered Chicken with Spinach and Bacon is a deliciously creamy and savory dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts topped with rich creamed spinach, sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted Pepper Jack cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines simple ingredients for a comforting meal perfect for any night.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1.5 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast (about 4 small or 2 large breasts, halved)
- Salt, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Creamed Spinach
- 10 ounces fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- â…” cup half-and-half
- â…” cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Mushrooms and Bacon
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Topping
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese (or Monterey Jack cheese with jalapenos)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and paprika. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Creamed Spinach: In the same skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts. Stir in half-and-half and shredded mozzarella cheese, continuing to cook until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Cook Mushrooms and Bacon: In another skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Add cooked, chopped bacon and stir to combine well.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the cooked chicken breasts on serving plates. Top each with a generous portion of the creamy spinach, then spoon over the mushroom and bacon mixture. Finish by adding a slice of Pepper Jack cheese on top of each chicken breast. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with jalapenos if Pepper Jack is unavailable.
- Cook bacon to your preferred crispiness before chopping and adding to the dish.
- For a lower fat option, use milk instead of half-and-half, though the sauce may be less creamy.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Fresh spinach can be replaced with frozen spinach if drained thoroughly.
