Description

Imagine walking into your kitchen and the irresistible aroma of savory chicken, creamy spinach, and crispy bacon fills the air. Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a dish that not only delights the senses but also warms the heart. This comforting meal combines succulent chicken pieces with a rich and velvety cream sauce, giving you a taste of indulgence that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're preparing a cozy dinner for your family or hosting friends for a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Originating from the Southern United States, smothered chicken is a classic comfort food that has stood the test of time. The technique of "smothering" food in a sauce or gravy is deeply rooted in Southern cooking, often associated with home-cooked meals that evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. This recipe is a modern take on the traditional dish, combining tender chicken thighs with earthy mushrooms, crispy bacon, and vibrant spinach to create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

What makes this dish truly special is not just its delectable taste but also the ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can create a stunning meal that looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce is rich yet balanced, and it pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and sautéed vegetables. Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe will guide you through each stage, making it an enjoyable experience.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Creamed Spinach:
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces fresh spinach (or 10 ounces frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Bacon and Mushrooms:
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• For Serving:
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice or mashed potatoes (optional)

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing the chicken. Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it ensures that the skin crisps up beautifully when cooked. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan. Sear the chicken without moving it for about 7 to 8 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. This step is essential for building flavor. Flip the chicken over and sear the other side for an additional 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and begin preparing the creamed spinach. Add the butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and sizzle. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. The onions should soften and become fragrant, adding depth to the dish.

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can become bitter. If using fresh spinach, add it to the skillet now. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts down, around 2 to 3 minutes. If you’re using frozen spinach, add it now and stir until heated through.

Once the spinach is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. This will create a luxurious and creamy base. Add the Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

While the spinach is simmering, let’s move on to the bacon and mushrooms. In a separate pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. The rendered fat will add incredible flavor to the mushrooms. Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.

In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the sliced mushrooms and thyme. Sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown and tender, about 5 to 6 minutes. The mushrooms should soak up all that delicious bacon flavor. Once cooked, combine the sautéed mushrooms and crisp bacon back into the creamed spinach mixture, stirring to incorporate everything seamlessly.

Now, return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet with the creamed spinach, bacon, and mushrooms. Spoon some of the creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

During the last few minutes of cooking, you can prepare your side dish. Cooked rice or creamy mashed potatoes would both complement this dish beautifully, soaking up the delicious sauce. The choice is yours!

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

For serving, place a generous scoop of the creamed spinach, bacon, and mushroom mixture onto a plate. Nestle a chicken thigh on top, and drizzle some of the remaining sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Tips and Conclusion

For an added layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in buttermilk for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will result in even juicier chicken with a tender texture. If you're looking to make this dish lighter, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Additionally, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld beautifully, making for an even more delicious meal the next day.



Preparing Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is not just about creating a meal; it's about crafting an experience filled with warmth and comfort. The combination of savory chicken and a rich, creamy sauce will surely become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the care and love that went into making this dish.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might want to explore other comforting dishes like Southern-style Fried Chicken, Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken, or a hearty Beef Stroganoff. Each recipe is designed to bring joy to your table and inspire you to keep cooking. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family, encouraging them to join in on the culinary adventure. Happy cooking!