🍗🥔 Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes & Mushrooms
Mediterranean-Inspired | One-Pan • Comfort Food • Balanced
🌿 Description
This Creamy Smothered Chicken is a cozy, one-pan meal where tender chicken breasts are nestled in a garlic-herb cream sauce with golden potatoes, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach. The Mediterranean touch comes from olive oil, herbs, and lighter dairy, making it rich in flavor without being overly heavy—perfect for family dinners or relaxed entertaining.
🫒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
-
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
-
Salt & black pepper to taste
-
1 tsp paprika
-
½ tsp dried oregano
-
½ tsp dried thyme
-
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
-
1½ cups mushrooms, sliced
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
-
¾ cup light cream or half-and-half
-
2 cups fresh spinach
-
2 tbsp grated Parmesan or Pecorino
-
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or basil
🍳 Instructions
-
Season & sear chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme. Sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside. -
Cook potatoes
In the same skillet, add potatoes cut-side down. Cook 6–8 minutes until lightly golden. Stir occasionally. -
Add mushrooms & garlic
Add mushrooms and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds. -
Make the sauce
Pour in chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping the pan. -
Smother the chicken
Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer 12–15 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender. -
Finish with spinach
Stir in spinach and Parmesan. Cook just until wilted. Adjust seasoning. -
Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
🌿 Mediterranean Balance Benefits
-
Olive oil instead of heavy fats
-
Herbs & garlic for flavor without excess salt
-
Vegetables + lean protein for a balanced plate
-
Lighter cream for richness without heaviness
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes—thighs stay extra juicy. Increase simmer time by 5 minutes if needed.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy cream.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make it low-carb?
A: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini slices.
Q: What pairs well with this dish?
A: Crusty whole-grain bread, quinoa, or a simple tomato-cucumber salad.
🍽️ Serving Tip
Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and serve alongside a fresh Mediterranean salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
