– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 4 strips of bacon, diced
– 3 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Creating Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is simple if you follow these clear steps:
1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, add the diced bacon. Cook until crispy, then remove with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towels.
4. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the remaining bacon fat, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté until they are soft and browned, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Add the Spinach: Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder. Bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
8. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet. Coat the chicken in the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
9. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
10. Garnish and Serve: Once everything is heated and well combined, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
These straightforward steps will guide you in creating this incredible dish effortlessly, bringing joy and satisfaction to your table.