Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach

Introduction

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach is a delightful and creamy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory spinach and mushroom sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe is both satisfying and elegant, ideal for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Additional Parmesan and fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamed Spinach:
   • In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they begin to soften, about 4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
   • Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg to the skillet. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine and Finish:
   • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy spinach sauce over the top.
   • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Options: You can substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for additional flavor.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try using different cheeses like Gruyère or feta for a unique twist.
• Cream Substitute: Use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, though it may not be as rich.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   • Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor.
2. Can I use frozen spinach?
   • Yes, thawed frozen spinach can be used; just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
3. Is there a non-dairy substitute for heavy cream?
   • Yes, you can use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream substitute.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it. The flavors often develop more as it sits.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   • Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal.
6. How can I thicken the sauce more?
   • You can simmer the sauce longer to reduce it further or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
7. Can I add more spices?
   • Absolutely, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
8. Can this be made in a slow cooker?
   • Yes, you can cook the chicken and then add the sauce ingredients, cooking on low for 4-6 hours.
9. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
   • You can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
10. Can I freeze this dish?
    • Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach is a delectable dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts and a velvety, creamy spinach sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your preferences and makes for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

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