Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Bacon And Mushrooms

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and paprika. Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the vegetable oil and sauté the mushrooms until they are tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach and minced garlic. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the half and half and mozzarella cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish. Top each chicken breast with the cooked mushrooms, chopped bacon, and a slice of Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve the smothered chicken and mushrooms hot, with the creamy spinach sauce spooned over the top.

Tips and Variations:

• For a healthier version, use turkey bacon and low-fat cheese.
• Add chopped onions to the mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard.

Storing Leftovers:

• Store any leftover smothered chicken and mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place the chicken and mushrooms in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Food and Drink Pairings:

• Serve smothered chicken and mushrooms with mashed potatoes and a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Just be sure to thaw and drain the spinach before using it in the recipe.
• Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like. Cheddar, Swiss, or Gouda would all work well in this recipe.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.

Call to Action:

Try this delicious recipe for smothered chicken and mushrooms tonight! It’s sure to become a family favorite.