Name: Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 slices bacon, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This smothered chicken with creamed spinach is a true crowd-pleaser. The juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts soak up a luxurious cream sauce loaded with sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, and crispy bacon. It’s comforting, packed with protein, and comes together in under an hour with just one skillet. Whether you’re eating low-carb or simply love hearty, satisfying meals, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
Add mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until browned. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 650 kcal per serving

Variations

Cheese swap: Use Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
Add heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicier version.
Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Use thighs instead: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier cut.
Vegetarian version: Omit chicken and bacon, and substitute with sautéed tofu or roasted cauliflower.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini, white button, or baby bella mushrooms all work well in this recipe.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead. Reheat together gently just before serving.

What can I serve with this?

It pairs well with mashed cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or a simple green salad.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Cook the sauce on low heat and avoid boiling it. Stir gently until it thickens.

Can I omit the bacon?

Yes, but bacon adds a lot of flavor. If omitting, consider adding a bit more seasoning to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, after searing the chicken and making the sauce, you can combine everything in an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a large skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach is a rich, satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, savory mushrooms, crisp bacon, and a luscious cream sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive yet easy dinner for guests. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach