If you love a rich, comforting dinner with layers of flavor, this Creamy Balsamic Spinach Bacon Mushroom Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s an absolutely mouthwatering combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach all enveloped in a luscious balsamic cream sauce. Every bite feels indulgent but balanced, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress without fuss. The magic of this dish lies in how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in building the dish’s incredible flavor and texture. From the salty crunch of bacon to the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar, these essentials make the magic happen.
- Bacon (6 strips, cut into small pieces): Adds irresistible smokiness and crispy texture that sets the foundation.
- Chicken breasts (2 large, halved lengthwise): The star protein that stays tender and juicy.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A simple seasoning that amplifies savory notes without overpowering.
- Pepper (to taste): Brings a gentle kick and layers of flavor.
- Flour (for dredging): Helps create a golden crust on the chicken that locks in moisture.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to prevent sticking and to sear mushrooms beautifully.
- Cremini mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): Earthy and tender, their meaty texture complements the chicken perfectly.
- Chicken broth (1/3 cup): Adds savory depth and is key to making the sauce luscious.
- Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brings a tangy sweetness that balances the cream and richness.
- Heavy/whipping cream (1 cup): Creates the silky, decadent sauce that brings all the flavors together.
- Fresh baby spinach (2 cups, loosely packed): Adds vibrant color and a fresh, slightly earthy note that brightens up the dish.
How to Make Creamy Balsamic Spinach Bacon Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Start by cutting your bacon into small pieces – kitchen shears make this super easy. Fry the bacon over medium-high heat until it’s beautifully crispy. Don’t rush this step because the texture and flavor you develop here will elevate the entire dish. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate but keep about 2 tablespoons of that flavorful bacon fat in the pan for the next step. This fat is liquid gold, trust me.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you have four thinner cutlets. Season them generously with garlic powder and freshly ground pepper. Then lightly dredge each piece in flour. This step is crucial because it helps your chicken develop a golden, crispy exterior while staying juicy inside.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat that bacon fat in the skillet and cook the chicken pieces for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden color. The smell at this point is intoxicating! When cooked, place the chicken alongside the bacon on your plate to rest briefly.
Step 4: Sear the Mushrooms
The pan might look dry now, so add a splash of olive oil to keep things from sticking. Toss in your sliced cremini mushrooms and cook them over medium heat until their water evaporates and they get a lovely sear – about 6 to 8 minutes. You may need to lower the heat slightly if the pan starts smoking. The mushrooms are where that earthy depth comes alive.
Step 5: Remove Mushrooms
Once the mushrooms are perfectly browned, transfer them to the plate with your chicken and bacon. Your skillet should be ready for the next stage: making that decadent sauce.
Step 6: Make the Sauce Base
Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar, then use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the tasty brown bits stuck to the pan’s bottom – these bits are packed with flavor. Let the mixture bubble and reduce by half, about two minutes. This reduction concentrates the sauce’s flavor beautifully.
Step 7: Add Cream and Combine
Stir in the heavy cream, then nestle the chicken, bacon, and mushrooms back into the skillet. Simmer everything together for about 5 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken finishes cooking through. This is where all the flavors bind and get luscious.
Step 8: Wilt the Spinach
Finally, stir in the fresh baby spinach. I find it easiest to lift the chicken gently with tongs and tuck the spinach underneath. Let the spinach wilt for another minute or two – this adds freshness and a beautiful pop of green that brightens the whole plate. Your Creamy Balsamic Spinach Bacon Mushroom Chicken Recipe is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Balsamic Spinach Bacon Mushroom Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan turn this dish into something restaurant-worthy. They add a fresh aroma and a sharp contrast that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This meal pairs wonderfully with rustic mashed potatoes, buttery garlic bread, or even a light quinoa salad. The creamy sauce is a natural invitation to scoop up with something soft and warm, while lighter sides cut through the richness for a balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, plate the chicken atop a bed of creamy polenta or serve it alongside roasted seasonal vegetables. Using a wide white plate lets the vibrant spinach and glossy sauce shine. Drizzle a little extra balsamic vinegar around the edge for a pop of acidity and striking visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Balsamic Spinach Bacon Mushroom Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as delicious reheated.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, though the spinach may become slightly softer upon thawing. Freeze in portion-sized containers and use within 2 months for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream will help maintain that luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option here if you prefer darker meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through without drying out.
Is it necessary to flour the chicken?
Flouring the chicken creates that irresistible golden crust and helps thicken the sauce later, so I highly recommend it for the best texture and flavor.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can try using half-and-half or a lighter cream, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy. For best results, stick with heavy or whipping cream.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cooking cream alternative, and ensure your bacon does not contain any added dairy products. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the bacon and sauté the mushrooms in advance and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, quickly cook the chicken and combine all ingredients for the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Balsamic Spinach Bacon Mushroom Chicken Recipe feels like a hug on a plate — rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with fresh greens and smoky bacon. It’s the kind of dish that quickly becomes a favorite because it’s simple to make yet impressively delicious every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy this delightful combination with your loved ones!
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Creamy Balsamic Spinach Bacon Mushroom Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Balsamic Spinach Bacon Mushroom Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with balsamic vinegar, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh baby spinach. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Produce
- 6 strips bacon (cut into small pieces)
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pepper (to taste)
- Flour (for dredging)
Liquids and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears and fry over medium-high heat in a deep skillet until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside on a plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Sprinkle with garlic powder and pepper, then dredge all sides in flour to coat.
- Sear the Chicken: Cook the chicken pieces in the skillet with the bacon fat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and place on the same plate as the bacon.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Add about a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan if it’s dry. Cook the sliced mushrooms until their liquid has evaporated and they develop a nice sear, about 6-8 minutes. Adjust heat as needed to avoid smoking. Remove mushrooms and set aside with the chicken and bacon.
- Deglaze the Pan: Stir in chicken broth and balsamic vinegar, scraping up the browned bits from the pan bottom. Let the liquid reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, then return the chicken, bacon, and mushrooms to the pan. Simmer for approximately 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add the Spinach: Gently stir in the fresh baby spinach, tucking the chicken underneath with tongs to ensure even cooking. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Serve: Serve the creamy balsamic spinach bacon mushroom chicken immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, cut chicken breasts into thinner halves before seasoning and cooking.
- Use kitchen shears to easily cut bacon into uniform small pieces.
- Adjust pepper to taste and consider using salt sparingly as bacon and broth add saltiness.
- If the pan becomes too hot while cooking mushrooms, reduce heat to prevent burning or smoking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
