Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Flavor-Packed Meal for Any Occasion

Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Flavor-Packed Meal for Any Occasion

Ingredients

  • For the Baked Chicken Breasts:
  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts (4 small or 2 large sliced horizontally)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 packet (0.5 oz) Italian dressing mix
  • For the Creamed Spinach:
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 6 oz fresh baby spinach
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2/3 cup half-and-half
  • 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • Additional Ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 4 slices cooked bacon
  • 4 slices Pepper Jack or Monterey cheese with jalapeños

 


Instructions

  • Step 1: Bake the Chicken
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Grease a baking dish with butter.
  • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian dressing mix and arrange them flat-side down in the prepared dish.
  • Bake the chicken for 15–20 minutes until partially cooked.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Creamed Spinach
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until just wilted. Remove the skillet from heat.
  • Stir in minced garlic and half-and-half, bringing the mixture to a boil.
  • Add the mozzarella cheese and stir continuously over high heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture thickens. This should take about 30 seconds.
  • Lower the heat to simmer, stirring until the spinach mixture is creamy and smooth. If the mixture is too watery, simmer a little longer to reduce the liquid. Season with salt and set aside.
  • Step 3: Assemble and Finish Cooking
  • Remove the chicken breasts from the oven after their initial bake.
  • Top each chicken breast with:
  • A generous layer of creamed spinach
  • Chopped sun-dried tomatoes
  • Crumbled cooked bacon
  • A slice of Pepper Jack or Monterey cheese
  • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (no pink inside, juices run clear).
  • Notes
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
» MORE:  Homemade Peach Ice Cream
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes

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