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 with a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, making it easy to impress your family and friends. The addition of spinach adds a vibrant touch, while the crispy turkey bacon brings in that savory flavor you won’t forget.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce, combined with spices and fresh ingredients, creates a dish full of taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over egg noodles, rice, or even enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal.
• Healthy Twist: Incorporating spinach boosts nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meats.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

For the Sauce

• 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 Greens

• 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 your ingredients:
1. Dice the onion finely.
2. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
– Add the chicken thighs or breasts.
– Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic.
– Mix in the cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Set your slow cooker to low:
– Cook for about 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Serve

In the last 30 minutes of cooking:
– Stir in the baby spinach until wilted.
– Serve over cooked egg noodles or your pasta of choice. Enjoy your delicious creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff!

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

Serving Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon is a delightful experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes to elevate your meal.

Classic Over Egg Noodles

• Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles for a comforting base that absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Top with chopped fresh parsley or chives for added color and a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the dish.

Side Salad

• Pair it with a crisp side salad, such as a mixed greens salad, to add freshness and balance to the meal.

Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce, providing a deliciously crunchy contrast to the creamy texture.

Steamed Vegetables

• Include steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side that adds crunch and nutrients to your plate.

Pickled Vegetables

• Offer pickled cucumbers or other pickled vegetables on the side for a tangy kick that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the stroganoff.

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

To achieve a perfect Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra moisture and flavor during cooking.
• Sauté Aromatics First: Sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This enhances their flavors and adds depth to your dish.
• Thicken Wisely: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in cornstarch or flour at the end of cooking. This will create a luxurious texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or smoked paprika before serving. Customizing these spices can enhance your stroganoff’s final flavor profile.
• Add Spinach Last: Stir in baby spinach just before serving. This keeps it vibrant and prevents it from wilting too much during cooking.
• Consider Alternatives for turkey Bacon: If you want fewer calories, consider using turkey turkey bacon as a lighter alternative while still achieving that crispy texture.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and pairs well with creamy dishes. Drizzle with lemon juice for extra zest.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent pairing, providing an ideal canvas for the rich stroganoff sauce.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts introduce a nutty flavor that complements the richness of the stroganoff beautifully.
4. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad tossed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to your main dish.
5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned lightly; it absorbs flavors well while keeping things light.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices add color and texture while being easy to prepare on the grill alongside your main dish.
7. Quinoa Pilaf: A quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs provides protein-packed nutrition while complementing the stroganoff’s creaminess.
8. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy garlic roasted potatoes provide crunch and flavor, making them an irresistible choice alongside your creamy meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid overcooking the chicken. Make sure to set your slow cooker to the right time; overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Don’t forget to season properly. Always taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process to enhance flavors.
• Use the right thickening agent. If you want a thicker sauce, consider using cornstarch or a plant-based gelling agent instead of traditional methods.
• Skip the pre-cooking step for vegetables. Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them can deepen their flavors, making your dish even tastier.
• Avoid using low-quality broth. The quality of your chicken broth can significantly affect the overall flavor of your stroganoff.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Divide into single servings for easy thawing and reheating.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of chicken for Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?
Chicken thighs are ideal as they remain tender and juicy during slow cooking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt.

How do I customize my Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?
Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or other vegetables to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?
Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for perfectly tender chicken.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with creamy textures. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta options. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or hearty family meals!