Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet balanced. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with creamy garlic spinach, golden mushrooms, smoky bacon, and melty Pepper Jack cheese. It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 tbsp butter (to grease baking dish)
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 small or 2 large, halved)
• Salt, to taste
• ¼ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• ¼ tsp paprika

For the Creamed Spinach

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 10 oz fresh spinach
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅔ cup half-and-half
• ⅔ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt, to taste

Additional Toppings

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese (or Monterey Jack with jalapeños)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with butter.
3. Season chicken on both sides with salt, lemon pepper, and paprika.
4. Place chicken flat side down in dish and bake for 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Creamed Spinach

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add spinach, cover, and cook until just wilted (1–2 min).
3. Stir in garlic and half-and-half, bring to a gentle boil.
4. Add mozzarella, stirring until melted and creamy.
5. Season with salt and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a separate skillet over medium-high.
2. Add mushrooms and cook 1–2 minutes until golden.
   (Tip: Don’t salt them yet—this helps proper browning.)

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

1. Remove chicken from oven.
2. Top each breast with creamed spinach, mushrooms, and bacon.
3. Place one slice of Pepper Jack cheese on top of each.
4. Return to oven for 15–20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (juices run clear, internal temp 165°F).
5. Optional: Broil 2–4 minutes for a bubbly, golden cheese topping.

Tips & Tricks

• Seasoning boost: Add smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
• Crispier bacon: Use thick-cut bacon and bake it until extra crisp before chopping.
• Cheese swaps: Provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella work well if you prefer mild.
• Visual finish: A quick broil adds a restaurant-style golden crust.

Substitutions & Variations

• Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard.
• Protein: Try turkey cutlets, pork chops, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Veggies: Bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes add color and flavor.
• Spice level: Use plain Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble up to the point of baking with toppings, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5 extra minutes.

Can I freeze smothered chicken?

Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What sides go best with it?

• Low-carb: Roasted cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or a crisp salad.
• Comfort style: Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or garlic bread.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbs: 6g

This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms brings together the best of comfort food, creamy, crispy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this recipe guarantees clean plates and second-helping requests.

Print it, save it, or share it, and next time you need a comforting dinner idea, you’ll already know where to look.

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