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Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, Mushrooms

An easy, comforting weeknight dinner featuring juicy chicken smothered in creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon butter For richness and flavor.
  • 1.5 lb skinless, boneless chicken breast Juicy and easy to cook.
  • Salt Just the classic seasoning.
  • 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning A hint of brightness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika Adds depth and a beautiful color.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil To help with that nice sear.
  • 10 oz fresh spinach The star of the creamed side.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Because garlic makes everything better.
  • 2/3 cup half and half Creaminess, here we come!
  • 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Ooey-gooey goodness.
  • 4 oz sliced mushrooms Earthy flavor and nice texture.
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped Because bacon makes everything better.
  • 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese or Monterey Jack with jalapenos For that kick.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Butter the bottom of a baking dish.
  3. Season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt, lemon pepper, and paprika.
  4. Place the chicken in your baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until it’s cooked through (an internal temp of 165°F).
  5. Meanwhile, in a skillet, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat and add the spinach. Cover and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
  6. Remove from heat and add the minced garlic and half and half. Bring to a gentle boil and stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. In another pan, heat the second tablespoon of vegetable oil and add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for 1-2 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
  8. After the chicken is done baking, top it with the creamed spinach, cooked bacon, and mushrooms. Then, layer those slices of cheese on top.
  9. Bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melty and bubbly. Optionally broil for an extra 2-4 minutes for a bubbly crust.
  10. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Make sure your chicken is at room temp before cooking for even cooking. Keep an eye on garlic to avoid burning. Let the chicken rest after baking for juiciness.