Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon is a delightful dish that brings comforting flavors to your dining table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce, paired with fresh spinach, makes this dish both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s adaptable for various dietary needs while still delivering on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with spices creates a rich and tasty experience.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or even as a filling for wraps.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken and spinach, it’s a great way to include protein and greens in your diet.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, making it easy to prepare meals throughout the day.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, ensuring efficiency and cleanliness in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Dish

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 6 strips turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach

For Serving

• 12 oz egg noodles or pasta of choice, cooked separately

How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First, gather all your ingredients together. Chop the turkey bacon into small pieces and finely dice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves to bring out their flavor.

Step 2: Cook the turkey Bacon

Add the chopped turkey bacon to your slow cooker. Cook on high for about 5 minutes until it starts to crisp up.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Next, add the chicken thighs or breasts into the slow cooker along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir well.

Step 4: Add Creamy Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook on Low

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for about 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 6: Add Spinach

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in fresh baby spinach. Allow it time to wilt while cooking.

Step 7: Serve Over Noodles

Finally, serve your creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or pasta of your choice. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Serving your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon can enhance the meal experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for added color and a burst of flavor.
• Thyme Sprigs: Use fresh thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the creamy sauce.

Add a Crunchy Element

• Crispy Onions: Top your stroganoff with crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch.
• Toasted Nuts: Add chopped toasted walnuts or almonds for extra texture and nuttiness.

Serve Over Different Bases

• Mashed Potatoes: Serve on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
• Rice: Use fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

How to Perfect Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Perfecting your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Quality Chicken: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken thighs or breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices before serving to enhance the overall taste.
• Cook Low and Slow: Allow the stroganoff to cook on low heat for several hours; this tenderizes the chicken perfectly.
• Incorporate Fresh Spinach: Add spinach towards the end of cooking to keep it vibrant and nutritious.
• Thicken Sauce if Needed: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water just before serving.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Always finish with thoughtful garnishes like herbs or crispy toppings for presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Complementing your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff is essential for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great side dishes that pair beautifully with it.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A light vegetable option that adds color and vitamins without overpowering flavors.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; prepare it simply with butter, garlic, and herbs.
3. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add natural sweetness; drizzle them lightly with honey before roasting.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stroganoff.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa enhances the meal; mix in herbs and vegetables for added flavor.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides texture contrast; use a tangy dressing to brighten up the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Choosing fatty cuts can make the dish greasy. Opt for boneless, skinless thighs or breasts for a leaner result.
• Neglecting to season properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Skipping the sauté step: Not browning your onions and garlic first can reduce flavor depth. Sauté them until they’re fragrant for a better base.
• Overcooking the noodles: Adding overcooked pasta to the stroganoff can ruin its texture. Cook noodles separately and just until al dente for the best results.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the cooking time can lead to tough chicken. Allow enough time for slow cooking to tenderize the meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium-low heat, stirring often, until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries about our recipe.

What makes this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon special?

This dish combines tender chicken with creamy sauce and fresh spinach, offering a delightful twist on classic stroganoff without using pork products.

Can I use other types of vegetables in this stroganoff?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for additional flavor and nutrition.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options. The rest of the ingredients remain unchanged.

What can I serve alongside this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?

Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or serve it over rice instead of noodles. Give this comforting recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!