Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, Mushrooms

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
  • Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Bacon:

  • In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook over medium heat until crispy (about 4-5 minutes). Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms:

  • In the same skillet (you can add a little more olive oil if needed), add the sliced mushrooms and sauté over medium heat until tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside with the bacon.

4. Make the Creamed Spinach:

  • In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the fresh spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted (if using frozen spinach, add it after the onions and garlic are softened).
  • Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, and nutmeg (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and the spinach is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Smothered Chicken:

  • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamed spinach mixture. Spoon some of the creamy spinach over the chicken.
  • Add the cooked bacon and sautéed mushrooms on top of the chicken and spinach. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet around the edges of the chicken, then cover and simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Final Touches:

  • Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and let it melt into the sauce for extra flavor.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

7. Serve:

  • Serve the Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetable side. The creamy sauce and savory toppings will pair beautifully with almost anything!