Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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When it comes to comfort food that feels both indulgent and wholesome, this Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes hits every note. It brings together the richness of creamy sauce, the deep umami of sun-dried tomatoes, and the fresh bite of wilted spinach—all wrapped around tender, juicy chicken breasts. Each forkful is layered with flavor and warmth, making it the perfect recipe for cozy dinners or impressive weekend meals.

Whether you’re hosting guests or just need a satisfying dish that comes together in one skillet, this recipe delivers big time. The smoky bacon topping and vibrant golden sauce make it look as good as it tastes, while still being surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s a crowd-pleaser that doubles as a weeknight winner.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook evenly and soak up the sauce beautifully. If you prefer darker meat, boneless chicken thighs are a great substitute—they offer a deeper flavor and stay extra moist.

Ingredients for the Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Chicken breasts – The heart of the dish, providing lean, juicy protein.
• Fresh spinach – Adds color and nutrients, and perfectly wilts into the sauce.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Infuse the sauce with sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture.
• Heavy cream – Creates the rich, velvety base for the sauce.
• Garlic – Gives a warm, savory backbone to the creamy mixture.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty layer that melts into the sauce.
• Cooked bacon – Crumbled on top for a crispy, smoky finish.
• Chicken broth – Lightens the cream and enhances the chicken flavor.
• Olive oil – Used for browning the chicken and starting the flavor base.
• Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes – Balance and boost all the flavors.

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How To Make the Smothered Baked Chicken with Creamed Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. In a hot skillet with a drizzle of olive oil, sear each breast for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and a splash more oil if needed. Cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds to a minute. Then stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and allow them to bloom in the oil.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the pan and stir until just wilted. This only takes a couple of minutes. Don’t overcook it—you want it vibrant and tender.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the Parmesan. Stir until the sauce is smooth and gently bubbling. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as needed.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the creamy mixture over the top. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon. Transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thickened.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The flavors meld beautifully, and the sauce will slightly thicken more as it sits.

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How to Serve and Store This Dish

This dish is best served straight from the oven while the sauce is hot and creamy. Spoon extra sauce over each piece of chicken when plating, and don’t forget to garnish with a little extra Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley if you like a touch of green.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave in 30-second bursts to prevent the cream from separating. A splash of broth can help bring the sauce back to life.

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What to Serve With Smothered Baked Chicken?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The creamy, savory flavors of the chicken pair beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of sauce.

Roasted Parmesan Broccoli

Crispy-tender broccoli with a cheesy finish adds a nice contrast to the creaminess of the dish.

Fluffy Dinner Rolls

Perfect for dipping into that golden, garlicky sauce left on the plate.

Lemon Butter Green Beans

The citrusy tang of lemon butter cuts through the richness for a light, zesty side.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Adds texture and earthy flavor that plays well with the creamy chicken.

Creamed Corn Bake

A slightly sweet, creamy side that matches the indulgence of the chicken perfectly.

Caesar Salad

A cool and crisp salad offers a refreshing balance to the hot, saucy chicken.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

Their subtle sweetness and herbal fragrance make them an excellent cozy pairing.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into savory, creamy, and comforting meals like this, these are some other reader-loved recipes to explore next:

• Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for an easy slow-cooker comfort meal.
• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy for a cozy dinner that cooks itself.
• Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole if you’re in the mood for creamy meets flaky.
• Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) to recreate a restaurant favorite at home.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni for a hearty pasta pairing.

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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