Smothered Chicken: Creamed Spinach, Beef Bacon & Mushrooms

Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms is not merely a recipe; it is an invitation to culinary bliss. Prepare to be utterly captivated by a dish that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. I believe this dish stands as a testament to the magic that happens when comfort food meets gourmet elegance, offering a truly memorable meal.

While the concept of “smothered” dishes has deep roots in comforting, slow-cooked traditions, particularly cherished in Southern cuisine for their tender meats and rich gravies, this particular rendition elevates the classic to new heights. It beautifully marries the familiar warmth of a home-cooked meal with sophisticated layers of flavor and texture that truly sing, creating an innovative twist on a beloved style.

Why This Dish Becomes an Instant Favorite

People adore this exquisite creation for countless reasons. Imagine succulent chicken breasts, perfectly seared and then gently simmered in a velvety sauce, infused with the earthy goodness of sautéed mushrooms, the irresistible smoky crunch of beef bacon, and the luxurious, creamy embrace of spinach. Every forkful delivers a harmonious blend of savory, creamy, and umami notes, creating an unforgettable sensation. The intricate flavors and delightful textures make Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms a showstopper, ideal for both a comforting weeknight dinner and a special occasion celebration. I guarantee it will become a cherished recipe in your repertoire.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (about 1.5-2 lbs total), patted very dry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• For the Beef Bacon and Mushrooms:
  • 6-8 slices beef bacon, diced into ½-inch pieces
  • 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• For the Creamed Spinach Sauce:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 5 oz fresh spinach (about 5-6 cups packed)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
• For Garnish (Optional):
  • Fresh chopped parsley or chives

Phase 1: Preparing Our Ingredients for “Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms”

1. Prepare the Chicken: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready for its starring role. If you’re opting for chicken breasts, I highly recommend slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This simple trick ensures they cook more evenly and quickly, preventing them from drying out and ensuring they remain beautifully tender. For robust chicken thighs, simply pat them very, very dry with paper towels. This seemingly small step is absolutely crucial for achieving that irresistible golden-brown sear later on – moisture is the enemy of a good crust! In a medium bowl, or directly on a clean cutting board, generously season both sides of your prepared chicken with salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and aromatic smoked paprika. Take your time to rub these seasonings in thoroughly, making sure every inch is coated evenly. This initial seasoning is incredibly vital for building deep, complex layers of flavor that will define our `Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms`. Once seasoned, set the chicken aside, allowing the flavors to meld slightly while we prepare our other components.
2. Render the Beef Bacon: Now, let’s turn our attention to the glorious beef bacon. Dice your slices of beef bacon into uniform ½-inch pieces. I find that this size provides the perfect textural contrast and allows the bacon to crisp up beautifully without becoming too brittle. Place a large, sturdy oven-safe skillet (a cast iron skillet is truly exceptional for this, if you happen to have one) over medium heat. Add the diced beef bacon to the cold skillet – this is a pro tip! Starting with a cold pan allows the fat to render slowly and evenly, resulting in exquisitely crispy bacon. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon bits are perfectly golden brown and delightfully crispy. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the cooked bacon bits from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. `Do not discard that precious bacon fat in the skillet!` We’ll be utilizing about 1 tablespoon of it to cook our mushrooms, infusing them with an incredible, savory depth of flavor that can only come from rendered beef bacon.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms: With the flavorful rendered bacon fat still gleaming in the skillet (if there isn’t enough, simply add a small splash of olive oil, aiming for about 1 tablespoon of fat total), increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Add the sliced mushrooms to the hot skillet. Don’t be alarmed if it looks like a towering pile at first; mushrooms cook down quite significantly. Resist the urge to stir them constantly. Instead, let them sit undisturbed for a good 3-4 minutes to develop a beautiful, caramelized sear and encourage them to release their moisture. Then, give them a good stir and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until they are wonderfully tender, deeply browned, and all their liquid has completely evaporated. During the very last minute of cooking, toss in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. This butter will impart a rich, glossy finish and an extra layer of luxurious flavor to our mushrooms. Once perfectly cooked, remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set them aside with the crispy bacon, patiently awaiting their reunion with the chicken and creamy sauce.
4. Prepare the Aromatics and Spinach: While our bacon and mushrooms are cooling slightly and their enticing aromas fill your kitchen, let’s get our remaining vegetables ready. Finely dice the yellow onion. The finer the dice, the quicker it will soften and virtually melt into our sauce, creating a silky texture. Mince the garlic cloves. I always advocate for fresh garlic here; its pungent, aromatic notes are simply superior to pre-minced versions. Have your fresh spinach ready; if it comes in a pre-packaged bag, it’s likely pre-washed, but a quick rinse under cold water never hurts. Make sure your chicken broth, cream cheese (cut into small cubes for quicker and smoother melting), and heavy cream are all measured out and conveniently close at hand. This meticulous organization, often referred to as “mise en place,” is a secret weapon that makes the entire cooking process much smoother, more efficient, and ultimately, more enjoyable. It minimizes frantic searching and allows you to focus on the magic happening in the pan.

Phase 2: Cooking the Chicken and Crafting the Creamy Smothering Sauce

5. Sear the Chicken: Now for the main event! Using the very same skillet where we cooked our bacon and mushrooms (if you felt compelled to clean it, simply add 1 tablespoon of fresh olive oil), heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering gently. Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in two separate batches to guarantee a beautiful, even sear. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 4-6 minutes per side, or until it develops a gorgeous, golden-brown crust and is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time will, of course, depend on the thickness of your chicken. Once cooked to perfection, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a clean plate. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm and allow those precious juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This step is absolutely crucial for ensuring tender, incredibly juicy chicken, which is undeniably the star of our `Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms`.
6. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to a steady medium. Take a moment to assess the skillet. If there’s a substantial amount of rendered fat or richly browned bits (fond) in the skillet, you can carefully drain some of the fat, leaving behind approximately 1 tablespoon. Add the finely diced yellow onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-5 minutes until the onion softens beautifully and becomes translucent, practically melting into the pan. As you stir, make sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan – these are concentrated pockets of flavor that will contribute immensely to our sauce! Now, add the minced garlic and cook for just another 1 minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be extra careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly. The truly incredible aroma filling your kitchen right now is an early promise of the delightful meal to come.
7. Deglaze and Build the Sauce Base: Pour in the chicken broth. Use a sturdy wooden spoon or a heat-resistant spatula to vigorously scrape the bottom of the skillet, actively loosening all those incredibly flavorful browned bits (the “fond”) that have accumulated during the cooking of the chicken and onions. This essential technique, known as deglazing, is fundamental for building remarkable depth of flavor in sauces, transforming ordinary pan drippings into something extraordinary. Allow the broth to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, reducing slightly and concentrating its savory flavors. This rich, aromatic liquid is going to form the foundational heart of our creamy, luscious sauce.
8. Create the Creamy Spinach Base: Reduce the heat to a gentle low. Add the cubed cream cheese to the simmering broth. Stir constantly and patiently until the cream cheese has fully melted and the sauce achieves a wonderfully smooth, lump-free consistency. It might take a few dedicated minutes, but your patience here will undoubtedly pay off with a silky smooth sauce. Once smooth, slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is well combined and begins to gently thicken to a luxurious consistency. Now, it’s time to add our aromatic dried herbs: the earthy dried thyme and the subtly pungent dried oregano. These herbs are carefully chosen to complement the richness of the sauce beautifully. Season generously with a good pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and if you appreciate a touch of warmth and subtle kick, a small pinch of red pepper flakes is a delightful addition. At this stage, I strongly encourage you to taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, we’ll be adding spinach and then the chicken, so ensure the sauce is vibrant and flavorful on its own.
9. Incorporate the Fresh Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time if necessary. Don’t be alarmed; it will look like an overwhelming mountain of green, but spinach wilts down incredibly quickly and dramatically. Stir gently, allowing the residual heat from the sauce to delicately wilt the spinach. Continue adding and stirring until all the spinach has completely softened and is tender-crisp, which usually takes only 2-3 minutes. The vibrant, deep green of the wilted spinach will provide a lovely visual contrast to the creamy sauce and introduce a wonderful note of freshness that cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced profile for our `Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms`.

Phase 3: Assembling and Smothering Our Delightful Chicken

10. Return and Smother the Chicken: With our gloriously creamy spinach sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Carefully nestle the perfectly seared chicken pieces back into the skillet, submerging them into the luscious creamed spinach sauce. Make sure each piece of chicken is nicely coated and thoroughly `smothered` in the rich, vibrant sauce. If any flavorful juices accumulated on the plate where the chicken was resting, definitely pour those into the sauce as well – those are pure, concentrated flavor essences! This step is where the magic truly happens, allowing the chicken to soak up all the incredible tastes we’ve built.
11. Combine and Warm Through: Now, for the final layers of texture and flavor! Spoon some of the creamy spinach sauce generously over the top of the chicken pieces. Then, distribute the reserved sautéed mushrooms evenly over and around the chicken. These earthy mushrooms, infused with bacon fat, will add another layer of umami. And finally, the crown jewel: sprinkle the wonderfully crispy beef bacon bits generously over the entire dish. Oh, the anticipation at this moment is absolutely palpable! Reduce the heat to a very gentle low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let everything simmer gently for 5-7 minutes. This crucial period allows all the incredible flavors to meld beautifully, the chicken to absorb some of the sauce’s goodness, and ensures that every single component is heated through thoroughly and harmoniously. The aroma at this point will be utterly intoxicating, a true testament to the layers of flavor that make up our exquisite `Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms`.
12. Final Touches and Serving: Once everything is beautifully warmed through and the flavors have had a chance to marry into a harmonious symphony, remove the skillet from the heat. Give the sauce one final taste and, if needed, adjust any seasonings. Sometimes a tiny pinch more salt or a grind of fresh pepper can truly make all the difference, elevating the dish to perfection. If desired, and for an extra flourish of freshness and color, generously garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley or chives. These vibrant herbs will add a wonderful brightness. Serve this magnificent `Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms` immediately, while it’s piping hot and at its most flavorful. It pairs wonderfully with simple white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy quinoa, or even some crusty artisan bread to soak up every last, delicious drop of that incredible sauce. Prepare for rave reviews and savor the glorious fruits of your labor!

Conclusion:

If there’s one recipe I’m absolutely buzzing for you to try this week, it’s this one. We’ve journeyed through the steps, savored the aromas, and imagined the incredible flavors, and now it’s time to bring it all to life in your own kitchen. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s an experience, a symphony of textures and tastes that will elevate your weeknight meal or impress your most discerning dinner guests. The magic truly happens when the succulent chicken, perfectly browned and tender, becomes delightfully infused with the rich, savory essence of the creamy spinach, the crisp, salty notes of beef bacon, and the earthy depth of the sautéed mushrooms. It’s a dish that promises pure comfort and undeniable elegance, all wrapped up in a surprisingly approachable cooking process. I truly believe that once you taste it, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic about it.

Why This Recipe Is an Absolute Must-Try

What makes this particular recipe stand out from the crowd? It’s the harmonious blend of robust flavors that dance on your palate. The chicken, cooked to juicy perfection, provides a wonderful canvas for the luxurious, velvety creamed spinach, which is utterly irresistible. But then, we introduce the secret weapons: the crispy, flavorful beef bacon that adds a delightful crunch and a smoky depth, and the tender, umami-rich mushrooms that ground the entire dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to a final product that is far greater than the sum of its parts. This is a meal that genuinely satisfies on every level – it’s hearty without being heavy, indulgent yet balanced, and packed with layers of incredible flavor that keep you coming back for more. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and just savor each bite, a testament to thoughtful ingredient pairing and simple, effective cooking techniques. Believe me when I say, this is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving time and time again.

Elevating Your Plate: Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

While the core recipe for this magnificent `Smothered Chicken With Creamed Spinach Beef Bacon And Mushrooms` is utterly perfect as is, part of the joy of cooking is making it truly your own! When it comes to serving, you have a plethora of options to complement its richness. I absolutely love pairing it with something simple that can soak up every last drop of that glorious, flavorful sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes are an obvious, incredibly comforting choice, providing a smooth contrast to the tender chicken. A fluffy bed of white rice, perhaps a fragrant jasmine or basmati, also works wonders, ensuring no drop of the delicious sauce goes to waste. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter to balance the richness, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint. For a more sophisticated touch, consider roasted asparagus or green beans, which add a lovely textural crunch and a hint of freshness. And for those who adore a good carb, a crusty baguette or some warm artisan bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the creamy goodness.

Now, let’s talk about variations – the fun part where you can truly unleash your culinary creativity! Don’t be afraid to experiment. If you’re a fan of different proteins, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. You could easily substitute the chicken breasts with succulent boneless chicken thighs for an even richer, more tender result, or even try it with pork chops for a delightful twist. For the vegetable component, while creamed spinach is divine, consider adding other greens like kale or collard greens for a slightly different texture and flavor profile. Artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes could also introduce lovely bursts of flavor. Mushroom lovers could explore different varieties – think earthy cremini, robust portobello, or delicate oyster mushrooms to change the textural and flavor nuances. If you’re feeling cheesy (and who isn’t?), a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Gruyère into the sauce could add an extra layer of savory depth. And for those who enjoy a little heat, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes would give it a subtle kick. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this incredible dish to your personal taste and whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

So, there you have it – my passionate plea for you to embrace this recipe. I’ve shared all my tips and tricks, and now it’s your turn to step into the kitchen and create this masterpiece. Don’t be intimidated by the name or the luxurious sound of the ingredients; the process is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Imagine the smiles around your table, the appreciative murmurs, and the sheer satisfaction of presenting such a magnificent meal. This isn’t just about feeding your body; it’s about nourishing your soul, sharing good food, and creating wonderful memories. I am genuinely excited for you to experience the incredible flavors and comforting warmth of this dish. Once you’ve whipped it up, I would absolutely love to hear all about your experience! Did you stick to the recipe, or did you venture into your own creative variations? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Please, share your stories, your photos, and your triumphs. Your feedback brightens my day and helps us all grow as a culinary community. So go ahead, tie on that apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare to make some magic happen in your kitchen. Happy cooking, my friends!

Smothered Chicken: Creamed Spinach, Beef Bacon & Mushrooms

Prepare to be utterly captivated by a dish that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. This rendition of smothered chicken elevates the classic, marrying the familiar warmth of a home-cooked meal with sophisticated layers of flavor and texture. Succulent chicken breasts are simmered in a velvety sauce, infused with earthy mushrooms, smoky beef bacon, and luxurious, creamy spinach, creating an unforgettable sensation perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time
25 Minutes

Cook Time
1 Hours

Total Time
25 Minutes

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 6-8 slices beef bacon, diced
• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sauce)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• ⅔ cup half-and-half
• 10 oz fresh spinach
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh chopped parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Halve chicken breasts. Pat dry. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
2. Step 2
   Dice beef bacon. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Remove bacon, drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tbsp bacon fat in skillet.
3. Step 3
   Add sliced mushrooms to skillet with reserved bacon fat over medium-high heat. Cook 3-4 minutes undisturbed, then stir and cook 5-7 more minutes until browned. Stir in 1 tbsp butter for the last minute. Remove mushrooms and set aside with bacon.
4. Step 4
   Dice onion and mince garlic. Prepare spinach, chicken broth, and half-and-half.
5. Step 5
   In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Sear chicken 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Remove chicken, tent with foil.
6. Step 6
   Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion to skillet; cook 3-5 minutes until softened, scraping up browned bits. Add minced garlic; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Step 7
   Pour in chicken broth. Deglaze skillet, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 1-2 minutes.
8. Step 8
   Reduce heat to low. Stir in ⅔ cup half-and-half, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook until sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings.
9. Step 9
   Add fresh spinach to skillet, stirring until wilted (2-3 minutes).
10. Step 10
    Return chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet, nestling into the sauce.
11. Step 11
    Spoon sauce over chicken. Top with reserved mushrooms and crispy bacon. Cover and simmer on low for 5-7 minutes to warm through and meld flavors.
12. Step 12
    Remove from heat, adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives (optional). Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or bread.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.