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#### **Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Chicken:**
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme on both sides. You can also rub the chicken with a little olive oil to help with browning.
2. **Cook the Bacon:**
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. After the bacon cools, crumble it into small pieces.
3. **Sauté the Chicken:**
In the same skillet, add olive oil or butter and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. **Cook the Mushrooms, Garlic, and Onion:**
In the same skillet, add the butter and sauté the chopped onion and mushrooms for about 5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
5. **Make the Creamed Spinach:**
Add the spinach to the skillet with the mushrooms and onions. If you’re using fresh spinach, it will wilt down significantly. Stir occasionally, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach is fully wilted. If you’re using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the skillet.
6. **Create the Creamy Sauce:**
Once the spinach is cooked, add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the cream thickens slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using) and continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. **Assemble the Dish:**
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them in the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of each chicken breast. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
8. **Finish and Serve:**
Once everything is nicely smothered and heated through, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the chicken and spinach mixture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
### **Serving Suggestions**
This Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for sides that will complement this rich and hearty dish:
– **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are an ideal accompaniment to this dish, as they can help soak up the rich sauce and add another comforting layer to the meal.
– **Rice:** White or brown rice also works well with this dish, providing a simple and neutral base to absorb the flavorful sauce.
– **Garlic Bread:** A loaf of crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover creamed spinach and sauce.
– **Steamed Vegetables:** If you want to keep things light and healthy, pair the dish with steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus.
– **Salad:** A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a nice contrast to the rich and creamy chicken.
### **Tips for Success**
1. **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Make sure not to overcook the chicken breasts, as they can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. **Use Fresh Spinach:** Fresh spinach works best for the creamed spinach layer. Frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to drain and squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a watery sauce.
3. **Adjust the Seasonings:** Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of this dish. Taste as you go and adjust the spices to your liking.
4. **Make Ahead:** This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
### **Conclusion**
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a rich and flavorful meal that brings together the best of savory, creamy, and crispy ingredients. Whether you’re looking to impress your family with a special dinner or treating yourself to a hearty, comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy.
With its combination of juicy chicken, luscious creamed spinach, smoky bacon, and tender mushrooms, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite and relish in the wonderful flavors that make this dish truly irresistible!
