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, rich flavors, and nutrient-packed spinach. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this creamy recipe stands out with its use of crispy turkey bacon, adding a savory crunch to every bite. Enjoy the ease of preparation in your slow cooker while savoring a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal prep time, just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The blend of cream cheese and sour cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to the chicken and pasta beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute chicken with turkey or adjust spices to suit your taste.
• Nutrient-Packed: Adding spinach not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or make-ahead meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing Bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is key for achieving tender chicken infused with all the delicious flavors.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board ensures safe chopping of ingredients like onions and garlic.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes it easier to dice vegetables quickly and safely.

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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 Your Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients for easy assembly later.
1. Chop the turkey bacon into small pieces.
2. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the chopped turkey bacon at the bottom.
2. Layer in the diced onion and minced garlic evenly over the turkey bacon.
3. Place the chicken on top of these ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Cook in Slow Cooker

Pour the sauce mixture over the layered ingredients in your slow cooker:
1. Cover with lid.
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.

Step 5: Add Spinach

About 30 minutes before serving:
1. Stir in fresh baby spinach into the slow cooker.
2. Allow it to wilt down while cooking.

Step 6: Serve Over Noodles

Once done:
1. Remove chicken from slow cooker; shred it using two forks if desired.
2. Serve over cooked egg noodles or preferred pasta for a hearty meal.

Enjoy your 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 Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creamy texture. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish.

Over Egg Noodles

• Serve the stroganoff generously over cooked egg noodles for a classic touch. The noodles soak up the sauce beautifully.

With Rice

• Pair the stroganoff with steamed white or brown rice. This option is great for those who prefer a gluten-free alternative.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the stroganoff in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and adds a crunchy texture.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness that complements the dish’s richness.

Alongside a Green Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the stroganoff, offering a refreshing contrast to the meal.

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

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

• Choose quality chicken: Select fresh boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a tender and juicy result.
• Use softened cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This ensures it blends smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Add salt, pepper, or extra garlic powder to suit your flavor preferences.
• Cook on low: For best results, cook on low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.
• Add spinach later: Stir in the baby spinach towards the end of cooking for maximum freshness and vibrant color.

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

Complementing your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A vibrant green side that adds nutrients and balances out the creamy stroganoff.
2. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a delicious crunch to each bite.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings an earthy flavor that pairs well with the dish.
4. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that works wonderfully alongside rich stroganoff.
5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the meal nicely.
6. Quinoa Salad
   Light and fluffy quinoa mixed with veggies can be a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• One common mistake is using too much liquid. Adjust the amount of chicken broth based on your desired consistency for the sauce.
• Another mistake is neglecting to season adequately. Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for full flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken is also a pitfall. Cook until just done, as the slow cooker will continue to cook it even after being turned off.
• Many people forget to cook pasta separately. Ensure your noodles are cooked al dente, as they will absorb moisture when mixed with the stroganoff.
• Lastly, some may skip adding fresh ingredients like spinach. Incorporating these at the end keeps them vibrant and nutritious.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

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

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon.

Can I substitute chicken with another meat?

Yes, you can use turkey or beef instead of chicken in this recipe for a different flavor profile.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You may use Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a lighter option.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta or substitute with spiralized vegetables like zucchini for a low-carb option.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas to enhance flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or serve over various pasta types. Give it a try; you might find it becoming a regular feature on your dinner table!