Description
Creamy smothered chicken with spinach, bacon, and mushrooms delivers Southern comfort on a plate. Rich layers of flavor combine perfectly, promising a hearty meal that satisfies you completely.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) skinless boneless chicken breast (approximately 4 small or 2 large breasts, halved)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt (to taste)
- 10 oz (283 g) fresh spinach
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2/3 cup half-and-half
- 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 oz (113 g) mushrooms (sliced)
- 4 slices bacon (cooked and chopped)
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese (or Monterey Jack Cheese with Jalapenos)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F, preparing a 13×9-inch baking dish with a light butter coating.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt, lemon pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Arrange chicken breasts flat side down in the greased baking dish.
- Roast chicken for 15-20 minutes until partially cooked.
- While chicken bakes, create the creamed spinach by heating spinach in a skillet with vegetable oil.
- Cover spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly wilted.
- Incorporate minced garlic and half-and-half, bringing the mixture to a rapid boil.
- Vigorously stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth, then season with salt.
- In a separate pan, caramelize mushroom slices over medium-high heat without adding salt.
- Cook mushrooms for 1-2 minutes until they develop a rich golden color.
- Remove chicken from the oven and layer each breast with creamed spinach.
- Distribute chopped bacon evenly over the spinach layer.
- Top with caramelized mushrooms and a slice of Pepper Jack cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked with clear juices and no pink center.
- Optional: Broil for 2-4 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbling cheese topping.
- Monitor closely during broiling to prevent burning.
Notes
- Maintain Chicken Moisture by not overcooking, which can make the meat tough and dry. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Select High-Quality Bacon for maximum flavor, preferring thick-cut or applewood-smoked varieties that provide richer taste and crispy texture when cooked.
- Customize Cheese Options by substituting Pepper Jack with alternatives like sharp cheddar, provolone, or Swiss for different flavor profiles that complement the dish.
- Accommodate Dietary Restrictions by using turkey bacon for lower fat content, dairy-free cheese alternatives, or replacing half-and-half with coconut milk for lactose-intolerant or vegan guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 495 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 43 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg