- Season and Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside, covering with foil to keep warm.
- Prepare the Bacon and Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the bacon pieces and drain on a paper towel, leaving some bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are golden and the onions are softened. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the bacon.
- Make the Creamed Spinach:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter (if needed) and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Smothered Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a baking dish, lay the cooked chicken breasts. Top each breast with a generous spoonful of creamed spinach.
- Add the sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon on top of the spinach-covered chicken.
- Optional: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese for a more cheesy finish.
- Bake:
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamed spinach and sautéed mushrooms in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble the dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve this with a side of cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a delicious low-carb meal.
Enjoy this Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms—a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy!