1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season and Dredge:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamed Spinach:
- Sauté Garlic:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Spinach:
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is fully thawed and any excess moisture is drained before adding.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is creamy and heated through. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Transfer the creamed spinach to a bowl and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms:
- Cook the Bacon:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Sauté the Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned and tender. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add Thyme:
- Stir in the dried thyme and cook until the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet with the mushrooms. Spoon the creamed spinach over the chicken and let everything simmer together for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Top with Bacon:
- Sprinkle the cooked bacon on top of the chicken and spinach mixture.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve the Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with tender chicken. The creamed spinach adds a deliciously velvety texture, while the bacon and mushrooms contribute savory depth. This meal is perfect for a comforting dinner that will impress family and friends alike, making it a must-try for any home cook looking to elevate their meal planning!