SMOTHERED CHICKEN WITH CREAMED SPINACH BACON AND MUSHROOMS

This smothered chicken dish is a decadent and comforting meal that’s sure to impress. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with a creamy spinach sauce, savory mushrooms, and crispy bacon for a delicious combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.
   • Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet, discarding the rest.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.
   • In the same skillet, add olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions:
   • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
4. Prepare the Creamed Spinach:
   • Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and onions, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
   • Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve:
   • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamed spinach and mushroom mixture.
   • Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the smothered chicken hot, with the creamy spinach, bacon, and mushroom sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.

This smothered chicken dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a special dinner or a comforting family meal. Enjoy!

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