Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms Recipe
This Smothered Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in butter and seasoned with lemon pepper and paprika, topped generously with creamy spinach blended with garlic, half-and-half, and mozzarella cheese. The dish is elevated with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon bits, and melted Pepper Jack cheese, making a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1.5 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast (approximately 4 small or 2 large breasts, halved)
- Salt to taste
- ¼ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
For the Creamed Spinach:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 10 ounces fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅔ cup half-and-half
- ⅔ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese or Monterey Jack Cheese with Jalapenos
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season the halved chicken breasts with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and paprika. Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same or a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and browned, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Creamed Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in ⅔ cup half-and-half and stir well. Add shredded mozzarella cheese and stir continuously until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish: Once the chicken is cooked, top each breast with sautéed mushrooms, chopped cooked bacon, and a slice of Pepper Jack cheese. Cover the pan with a lid for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt over the toppings.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts and spoon the creamed spinach alongside or over the chicken. Serve warm and enjoy this rich and comforting meal.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best texture and flavor in the creamed spinach.
- Cooking bacon ahead of time and chopping saves preparation time.
- The dish can be paired nicely with mashed potatoes or rice for a fuller meal.
- If Pepper Jack cheese isn’t available, substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- For a healthier option, use low-fat half-and-half or milk and reduce cheese quantity.
