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 combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach for a comforting meal. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Its rich flavors and ease of preparation make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this dish practically cooks itself in the slow cooker.
• Rich and Flavorful: Cream cheese and Dijon mustard create a creamy sauce that elevates the chicken’s taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out chicken for turkey or use different greens based on your preference.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies warmth and comfort, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy this delightful stroganoff the next day; it tastes even better!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon, you’ll need a few essential tools. Gathering these items will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over hours.
• Chopping board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients, ensuring efficiency.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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 Chicken and Vegetables

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the chopped chicken.
2. Sprinkle in the 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. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook on Low Heat

Set your slow cooker on low heat:
– Cook for about 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 4: Add Spinach Before Serving

About 15 minutes before serving:
– Stir in the baby spinach until wilted.

Step 5: Serve Over Noodles

Once ready:
– Serve the creamy stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or your choice of pasta. Enjoy this delicious meal with friends or family!

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

This delicious creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff is a versatile dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. Serving suggestions can elevate your meal and enhance the flavors of this savory dish.

Classic Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, providing a comforting base for your chicken stroganoff.

Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stroganoff.

Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side to enjoy every bit of the creamy sauce. It’s an excellent choice for dipping!

Steamed Vegetables

• Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side that balances out the richness of the dish.

Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a hearty base, complementing the flavorful chicken and spinach well.

Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf can be a delightful alternative, allowing you to savor each bite of this comforting dish.

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

Making this recipe truly special requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your stroganoff turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose quality chicken: Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for tender and juicy results.
• Sauté vegetables first: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavors, making your dish more aromatic.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.
• Use low-sodium broth: Opting for low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels in your meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Incorporate spinach at the end: Add baby spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh, ensuring it retains its nutrients.
• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the stroganoff to rest for a few minutes after cooking can help thicken the sauce further, improving overall texture.

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

Pairing side dishes with creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious crunch that complements the rich flavors of stroganoff.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a deliciously buttery side that pairs wonderfully with the sauce.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dish.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with vegetables adds texture and freshness, balancing out the meal’s richness.
5. Couscous with Herbs
   Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs serves as a light yet satisfying accompaniment to absorb all those delicious juices.
6. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob brings sweetness and color to your plate, creating an appealing presentation alongside stroganoff.
7. Cauliflower Rice
   For a lighter option, cauliflower rice is low-carb yet filling, making it an ideal pairing for this heartwarming dish.
8. Mixed Green Salad
   A crisp mixed green salad tossed in vinaigrette offers brightness, enhancing each bite of creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoiding overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Set your slow cooker to the recommended time to keep it juicy.
• Using low-quality broth: A bland broth will lead to a lack of flavor. Opt for a quality chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Skipping the seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in a dull dish. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed throughout cooking.
• Forgetting to prepare the noodles separately: Cooking noodles in the slow cooker can make them mushy. Always cook them separately to maintain their texture.
• Ignoring the spinach addition timing: Adding spinach too early can cause it to wilt excessively. Stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking for optimal freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stroganoff to cool before sealing the container.

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

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy reheating.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy  turkey Bacon?
This dish is a comforting meal featuring tender chicken cooked slowly with creamy sauce, spinach, and crispy textures.

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy  turkey Bacon?
Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or your favorite herbs to enhance flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

What should I serve with my Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?
Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!