Introduction
Say hello to comfort food bliss with our Smothered Chicken without the cream cheese! This dish boasts tender chicken breasts bathed in a savory blend of creamy spinach, sizzled bacon, and umami-rich mushrooms. Dive into a plate full of cozy flavors that are perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer bacon to a plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet; cook each side until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms until they start to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add fresh spinach to the skillet, cooking until wilted.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Simmer for a few minutes to heat through.
8. Serve your smothered chicken hot, topped with the crispy bacon.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Season Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer bacon to a plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet; cook each side until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Mushrooms
In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms until they start to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 5: Add Spinach
Add fresh spinach to the skillet, cooking until wilted.
Step 6: Make Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Simmer for a few minutes to heat through.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your smothered chicken hot, topped with the crispy bacon.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Pair with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips
Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the creaminess of the sauce.
Cook Techniques
Seasoning Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor before cooking.
Crispy Bacon
Cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy to add a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.
Golden Brown Chicken
Sear the chicken on each side until golden brown, which adds depth of flavor and helps retain moisture.
Sautéing Mushrooms
Sauté mushrooms until browned to develop their umami flavor, which complements the chicken and sauce.
Garlic Infusion
Add minced garlic to the sautéed mushrooms to infuse the dish with aromatic richness.
Wilting Spinach
Cook the spinach just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutrient content.
Thickening the Sauce
Combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese in the skillet, stirring until the cheese melts to create a rich and creamy sauce.
Simmering for Flavor
Return the chicken to the sauce and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and absorb into the chicken.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter for a lighter option, though it may alter the creaminess.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the dish, but it’s best to do so without the spinach for optimal texture upon reheating.
Conclusion
More Chicken Recipes
Explore lemon garlic chicken or BBQ chicken for more delicious chicken dishes.
More Comfort Food Ideas
Try creamy mushroom pasta or loaded baked potatoes to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Easy Weeknight Dinners
Consider skillet fajitas or one-pot chicken and rice for quick and satisfying meals.
