Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Bacon and Mushrooms

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Bacon and Mushrooms

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a hearty, low-carb, Mediterranean-friendly dish that balances rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. Succulent chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection, then topped with a creamy spinach sauce infused with garlic, sautéed mushrooms, and crispy bacon. The dish is finished with a touch of Parmesan for a nutty depth, making it indulgent yet nutritious. High in protein, low in carbs, and rich in healthy fats, it’s perfect for those seeking a satisfying meal that aligns with a Mediterranean-inspired lifestyle.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

For the Creamed Spinach:

2 tbs  olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

6 cups fresh baby spinach (about 8 oz)

1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for Mediterranean diets)

For the Topping:

4 slices of bacon, chopped

8 oz mushrooms, sliced

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Gouda cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sear chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown (they don’t need to be fully cooked). Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and tender. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Creamed Spinach

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan (if using) and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Place seared chicken breasts in a baking dish.

Spread the creamed spinach over the chicken.

Top with cooked mushrooms, crispy bacon, and shredded cheese (if using).

5. Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve

Serve hot with a side of roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a simple Mediterranean salad.

Recipe Notes

Chicken: Use thighs for juicier results. Pound the breasts slightly for even cooking.

Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with unsweetened coconut cream and skip the cheese.

Vegetables: You can add sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for a Mediterranean twist.

Cheese-Free Option: Omit cheese entirely for a more traditional Mediterranean diet.

Tips for Success

Searing the Chicken: Don’t skip searing—it locks in juices and adds flavor.

Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach for better flavor, but frozen (thawed and drained) can work in a pinch.

Mushroom Variety: Cremini or baby Bella mushrooms provide a deeper flavor compared to white mushrooms.

Season to Taste: Taste the spinach mixture and adjust seasoning before assembling the dish.

One-Pan Option: If your skillet is oven-safe, you can assemble and bake in the same pan for easy cleanup.

This dish is rich, satisfying, and perfect for those following a low-carb or Mediterranean-friendly lifestyle!