This indulgent dish combines juicy chicken breasts with creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and caramelized mushrooms, all topped with melted Pepper Jack cheese. A perfect comfort food for any occasion!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1.5 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts (4 small or 2 large halved)
- Salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- ¼ tsp paprika
Creamed Spinach:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 10 oz fresh spinach
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅔ cup half and half
- ⅔ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 4 slices Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack Cheese with Jalapenos
How To Make Smothered Chicke
1. Preheat Oven and Prep Chicken:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butter the bottom of a 13x9x4-inch baking dish.
- Season chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, lemon pepper, and paprika. Place flat-side down in the prepared dish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Creamed Spinach:
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add spinach and cook, covered, for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Remove from heat and add minced garlic and half and half. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in mozzarella cheese and continue stirring over high heat until it melts (about 30 seconds).
- Reduce heat to simmer, stirring until smooth (30 seconds to 1 minute). Season with salt and set aside.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add mushrooms and cook for 1-2 minutes until caramelized. Avoid salting to allow proper browning.
4. Assemble and Bake the Smothered Chicken:
- Remove partially baked chicken from the oven.
- Top each chicken breast with a layer of creamed spinach, followed by bacon, mushrooms, and a slice of Pepper Jack cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- For a golden finish, broil for 2-4 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh side salad. Enjoy this creamy, savory delight!