Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon is a delectable dish that brings comfort food to the next level. This rich and creamy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, delivering a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and crispy turkey bacon makes this stroganoff not only satisfying but also a healthier choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: With a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing for more time to relax.
• Rich Flavor: The cream cheese and Dijon mustard create a luscious sauce that enhances the dish’s taste.
• Healthy Twist: Using turkey bacon instead of traditional pork adds a lighter touch without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta types!
• Family Favorite: This comforting dish appeals to all ages, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, ensuring efficiency in prep.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing onions and garlic for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining cream cheese and sour cream to create a smooth sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Vegetables

• 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

Start by preparing all your ingredients for easy access during cooking.
1. Chop the turkey bacon into small pieces.
2. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
3. Place the chicken thighs or breasts on a cutting board.

Step 2: Cook the turkey Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the chopped turkey bacon.
2. Cook until crispy, then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the chicken followed by the cooked turkey bacon.
2. Sprinkle in diced onion and minced garlic.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker:
1. Cover with lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
2. Stir occasionally if possible.

Step 5: Add Spinach

During the last 30 minutes of cooking:
1. Stir in baby spinach until wilted.

Step 6: Serve

Once done:
1. Serve hot over cooked egg noodles or desired pasta. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon!

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

Serving your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff is just as important as preparing it. This dish is rich and flavorful, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the flavors.
• Chives for a Twist: Chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the dish well.

Serve Over Comforting Carbs

• Egg Noodles: The classic choice for stroganoff, providing a soft texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a hearty base, perfect for this rich dish.

Add Crunch with Toppings

• Crispy Turkey Bacon: Sprinkle extra crispy turkey bacon on top for additional crunch and flavor.
• Toasted Bread Crumbs: Add a layer of toasted bread crumbs for an unexpected crunch.

Accompany with Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus offers a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: Broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the stroganoff.

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

Perfecting your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff is easy with just a few helpful tips. Here’s how you can elevate your dish even further.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with seasonings. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to enhance flavors according to your taste.
• Cream Cheese Tip: Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to prevent lumps in your sauce.
• Chicken Thighs Advantage: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra moisture and tenderness in the final dish.
• Spinach Addition: Adding spinach towards the end of cooking helps retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Thicker Sauce Option: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking time.

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

Complementing your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Slices of warm garlic bread are perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch that pairs nicely with the creamy stroganoff.
3. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add texture and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
5. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with almonds offer both flavor and elegance to your table.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw introduces brightness, balancing out the richness of the stroganoff.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts to ensure tenderness and flavor. Avoid using tougher cuts which may not cook well in a slow cooker.
• Neglecting to soften cream cheese: Always soften your cream cheese before adding it to the recipe. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy stroganoff.
• Overcooking spinach: Add baby spinach towards the end of the cooking time to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. Adding it too early can lead to mushy greens.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This simple step can elevate the overall flavor of your creamy stroganoff.
• Not cooking noodles properly: Cook egg noodles or pasta separately according to package instructions for perfect texture. Mixing them too early can lead to sogginess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

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

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date for easy tracking.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer stroganoff to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it appears dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef or turkey if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To create a dairy-free version, replace cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt.

What should I serve with Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added nutrition and flavor contrast.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Simply add them to the slow cooker when you’re ready.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild. If you enjoy spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce during cooking for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon offers a rich, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal tastes or dietary needs. Try it today for a delightful family dinner!