Creamed Spinach Chicken is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich and creamy spinach and mushroom sauce. The addition of bacon and Parmesan cheese adds depth and a savory punch, making this meal not only satisfying but also elegant enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation
Step 1:
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it's golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2:
In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crisp, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, but keep the bacon grease in the skillet for extra flavor.
Step 3:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the bacon grease. Sauté them until they begin to brown, which will take about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4:
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down, which usually takes a few minutes. Then lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg to the skillet. Stir the mixture frequently, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5:
Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet. Spoon the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is reheated and everything is well combined.
Step 6:
Serve the creamed spinach chicken hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.
COOKING Note
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer, and the creamed spinach sauce should be thick enough to cling to the chicken and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served over a bed of cooked pasta, rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad to complement the creamy sauce.
Tips
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms and garlic before adding the spinach can introduce an additional layer of flavor.
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time
- 30 minutes
Total Time
- 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving
- Protein: 30-35 grams per serving
- Sodium: 400-500 mg per serving
Conclusion
Creamed Spinach Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With its rich, creamy sauce and the satisfying combination of chicken, spinach, and mushrooms, it's a delicious way to elevate dinner to a gourmet experience.
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