Easy Smothered Chicken – This Easy Smothered Chicken recipe. Is your perfect go-to for a comforting meal. That’s rich in flavor. And simple to make. With crispy bacon, and juicy chicken fillets. And a creamy garlic and spinach gravy. It’s a delightful dinner option. That everyone will love.
The first time I made this Easy Smothered Chicken. It quickly became a family favorite. My husband couldn’t get enough of the creamy gravy. And my child loved the crispy bacon bits. Sprinkled on top. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious. But also brings a sense of warmth. And togetherness to our dinner table.
What makes this Easy Smothered Chicken truly stands out?
This recipe stands out. With its combination of crispy bacon, perfectly seared chicken, and creamy garlic gravy. That’s packed with fresh spinach. The use of fresh Parmesan in the coating. And the rich, buttery sauce. Makes it an indulgent. Yet easy dish to prepare. Plus, it all comes together in under an hour!
What You Need To Make This Easy Smothered Chicken Recipe?
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch. That perfectly complements the creamy gravy. And tender chicken.
Chicken Breasts: Halved for even cooking. These chicken fillets are seasoned to perfection. Making them juicy and flavorful.
Seasonings: Lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Bring out the best in the chicken. Giving it a zesty and savory kick.
Flour and Parmesan: This coating gives the chicken. A delightful, crispy crust. With a hint of cheesy goodness.
Garlic: Smashing the garlic cloves. Releases their aromatic oils. Infusing the gravy with a rich, robust flavor.
Chicken Stock and Half & Half: These create a luscious, creamy gravy. That’s comforting and delicious.
Spinach: Adds a fresh, nutritious touch. Balancing the richness of the gravy.
Herbs: Fresh sage and parsley. Brighten the dish. And add a final layer of flavor.
Steps To Make Easy Smothered Chicken:
Step 1: Prep the Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Lay the bacon strips in the pan. And cook until they’re crispy and golden on both sides. Remove and set them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
Step 2: Season the Chicken: Take your chicken breasts. Season them generously with lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt. These seasonings add a wonderful burst of flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour and Parmesan cheese. Dredge each piece of chicken in this mixture. Make sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
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Step 4: Sear the Chicken: In the same skillet used for the bacon. Add the vegetable oil. And heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken fillets in the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Until they turn golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate. And set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic: Smash the garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife to release their flavor.
Step 6: Make the Gravy: Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel. Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic. And sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour. Until you have a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the chicken stock and half and half. Whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The gravy should start to thicken. Season with salt, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer gently. For a couple of minutes.
Step 7: Add Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach. And cook until it’s wilted about 2 minutes.
Step 8: Combine Everything: Return the chicken fillets to the skillet. Nestling them into the gravy. Chop the bacon. And sprinkle it over the top. Partially cover the skillet. And let everything simmer together for another 1-2 minutes. Until the chicken is heated through.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh sage leaves and parsley. Serve hot. And enjoy the creamy, savory goodness!
Tip:
For the best results. Make sure to keep your skillet at the right temperature. When frying the chicken. The oil should be hot enough. To sear the outside quickly. Locking in the juices. And creating a crispy crust. If the oil is too cool. The chicken will absorb more oil. And become greasy. Also, when making the gravy. Add the liquids gradually. And whisk continuously to prevent lumps. This creates a smooth, velvety texture. Finally, don’t rush the simmering process. Let the gravy gently bubble. To allow the flavors. To meld beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed. To ensure they are cooked through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare it ahead. And reheat gently on the stove. Or in the oven.
Is there a dairy-free option?
You can substitute the butter and half and half. With dairy-free alternatives like margarine. And coconut cream.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Easy Smothered Chicken
Ingredients
- 6 strips bacon
For The Chicken:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 fillets
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon pepper
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 tbsp finely grated fresh Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
For The Gravy:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 7-8 garlic cloves smashed
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 c chicken stock broth
- 1 c half and half or heavy cream
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 5 oz baby spinach
- Fresh sage leaves and parsley to garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Fry bacon until crispy. Then transfer to a plate.
- Season Chicken: Season chicken fillets with lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
- Dredge Chicken: In a shallow bowl, mix flour and Parmesan. Dredge chicken in the mixture. Shaking off excess.
- Sear Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in the same skillet. Once hot, sear chicken on each side until golden. About 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
- Make Gravy: Wipe the skillet. With a paper towel. Add butter and smashed garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add chicken stock and half and half. Whisking constantly until thickened. Season with salt, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted. About 2 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return chicken to the pan. Chop bacon and add to the pan. Cover partially. Cook over low heat for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with sage leaves. And parsley.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!