Description
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Smothered Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
Season and sear the chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Cook the mushrooms and spinach:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté until tender (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
Make the creamy sauce:
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Assemble and bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
Bake:
Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel; this ensures a good sear. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. When searing, avoid moving the chicken until it releases easily from the pan. For the sauce, let the cream and broth simmer gently—a rapid boil can cause the cream to separate. When assembling, spoon some sauce under the chicken in the baking dish to prevent sticking and add moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy chicken dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the delicious sauce. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttered egg noodles. For a lighter option, a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness. Steamed asparagus or green beans also make excellent vegetable accompaniments.
How-to Summary
In summary: Season and sear chicken until golden. Remove. In the same pan, sauté mushrooms, garlic, and spinach. Create a sauce with broth, cream, and Parmesan. Place chicken in a baking dish, smother with sauce, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until cooked through and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Yes, this sauce works wonderfully with pork chops or even thick-cut white fish fillets. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, and use a reduced-fat cheese blend.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from breaking.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Absolutely. Complete all steps through assembly, cover the baking dish, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? Before adding the cheese, create a slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water. Whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Pan: Sear chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer. Baking beyond 165°F internal temperature will result in dry chicken.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Liquid: Always reduce the heat to a simmer before adding Parmesan to prevent a grainy, separated sauce.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce less smooth. Shred your own mozzarella and Parmesan for best results.
Conclusion
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Smothered Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that feels gourmet but is deceptively simple to make. By following this enhanced guide, you’ll master the techniques for a perfect sear, a velvety sauce, and a beautifully baked finish. This versatile recipe is sure to become a reliable favorite for busy weeknights and impressive enough for weekend guests. Enjoy the process and the delicious, cheesy results!