Introduction
Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag? Look no further! This recipe for Sauteed Chicken with Creamy Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are elevated with a rich and flavorful creamy sauce packed with savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for weeknights but impressive enough for company. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this unforgettable dish!
Making Sauteed Chicken with Creamy Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button work well)
- 10 oz fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the olive oil and butter to the skillet with the bacon grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the chicken breasts to the other side and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds flavor!). Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add Spinach and Bacon: Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Add the cooked bacon back to the skillet and stir to combine. If desired, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
- Assemble and Serve: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce over them. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Sauteed Chicken
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking.
- Make it ahead: You can cook the bacon and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and add them to the sauce when you’re ready to cook the chicken.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish is delicious served over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
This Sauteed Chicken with Creamy Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy spinach creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. It’s an easy and impressive dish perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!
