Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles is a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe combines tender chicken and savory mushrooms in a rich, creamy sauce, making it an irresistible comfort food option. The slow cooker method ensures that flavors meld beautifully, while the herbed noodles add a fragrant twist. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a cozy weekend meal, this stroganoff is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and spices creates a deliciously creamy sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with noodles, rice, or even crusty bread for sopping up the sauce.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or when entertaining guests—everyone will love it!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles effectively, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking while intensifying flavors over time.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables and meats for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stroganoff

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup sour cream (full fat for creaminess)

For the Herbed Noodles

You can use your favorite egg noodles or any pasta of choice. Just cook according to package instructions and toss with herbs before serving.

How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by prepping all your ingredients:
1. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Slice the baby bella mushrooms if you haven’t done so already.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
* Add the chicken breasts or thighs.
* Layer in the sliced mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic.
* Pour in the chicken broth followed by Dijon mustard, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook on Low Heat

Set your slow cooker to low heat:
1. Cover it and allow it to cook for about 6-7 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.

Step 4: Finish with Sour Cream

Once cooked:
1. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker; shred it using two forks.
2. Stir in the sour cream until fully combined back into the sauce.

Step 5: Serve Over Herbed Noodles

Prepare your herbed noodles as directed:
1. Serve the creamy chicken stroganoff over a bed of herbed noodles.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles

Serving Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great serving suggestions to complement this dish.

Pairing with Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a burst of flavor and color.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the rich flavors of the stroganoff.

Accompanying with Breads

• Crusty bread: Serve with a loaf of fresh, crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Garlic bread: Complement the dish with warm garlic bread to soak up every drop of flavor.

Serving Over Different Bases

• Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect base that pairs well with the stroganoff.

Adding Crunch

• Salad: A light green salad can add freshness and crunch to balance the creamy texture of the stroganoff.
• Pickles: Serve with pickled vegetables or gherkins on the side for a tangy contrast.

How to Perfect Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles

To ensure your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chicken: Choosing fresh, boneless chicken breasts or thighs enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Sauté mushrooms first: Cooking mushrooms in advance adds depth and richness to your dish.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste before serving; add salt, pepper, or extra thyme according to your preference.
• Thicken sauce if needed: If the sauce is too thin, mix equal parts cornstarch and water, then stir in and cook until thickened.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Steamed broccoli: Adds color and nutrition while providing a nice crunch.
2. Green beans almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a delightful texture contrast.
3. Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad can add protein and fiber, making your meal more balanced.
4. Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out natural sugars and complement the savory stroganoff well.
5. Cauliflower rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors from the stroganoff nicely.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Cooking Time: Slow cookers work best when you respect the timing. Make sure to follow the recipe’s recommended cooking time for optimal flavor and texture.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Adding too many ingredients can hinder cooking. Keep to the recommended ingredient amounts to ensure even cooking.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a significant difference. Invest in good chicken and fresh mushrooms for the best results.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish well. Taste along the way and adjust salt and pepper as needed for a flavorful outcome.
• Not Allowing for Thickeners: If you want a thicker sauce, consider adding cornstarch or a plant-based gelling agent at the end of cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2-3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring there’s minimal air before sealing.

Reheating Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute regular noodles with gluten-free pasta or noodles made from rice or other gluten-free grains.

How do I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt are great alternatives that will still provide creaminess without using sour cream.

How can I customize my Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles?

You can customize it by using different proteins like turkey or beef and experimenting with various herbs and spices based on your preference.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients the night before and store them in the slow cooker insert in the fridge. Just set it up in the morning!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Turkey Bacon Stroganoff with Mushrooms & Herbed Noodles is not only rich and savory but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what’s available or your personal taste preferences. Whether serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try today!