Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach is a deliciously rich dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners and special occasions alike. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a creamy sauce, all elevated by the delightful crunch of crispy turkey bacon and the freshness of wilted spinach. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a family meal, this dish is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal preparation time, you can whip up this dish without any hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Meal: This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, making it a go-to choice for many occasions.
• Hearty Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and the crunch of turkey bacon, this stroganoff is both filling and nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook everything evenly without overcrowding, ensuring perfect texture.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic effortless, saving time during prep.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach:

For the Chicken Stroganoff

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 6 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sour cream

How to Make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach

Step 1: Cook the turkey Bacon

Start by heating your large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon.
– Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
– Remove the turkey bacon from the skillet and set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet with some turkey bacon drippings:
– Add diced onions and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
– Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Increase heat to medium-high and add chicken thighs to the skillet:
– Season with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
– Brown on both sides (about 5 minutes per side) until cooked through.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Reduce heat back to medium:
– Stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.
– Pour in chicken broth while scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Sour Cream

Mix in softened cream cheese:
– Stir until melted and combined into a creamy sauce.
– Finally, add sour cream; mix well until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Return cooked turkey bacon to the skillet:
– Gently fold in wilted spinach if using fresh.
– Serve warm over rice or pasta for a hearty meal.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Stroganoff!

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

Serving Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this rich dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the stroganoff over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting meal. The rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.

With Egg Noodles

• Pair with egg noodles for a classic presentation. Their texture complements the creamy sauce, making every bite satisfying.

In a Warm Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve in a warm bread bowl. This adds an enjoyable crunch and makes clean-up easy!

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. It enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

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

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken thighs and high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor.
• Control Heat Carefully: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the garlic and onions, which can turn bitter.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt or spices according to your preference.
• Use Fresh Spinach: Wilt fresh spinach just before serving for vibrant color and optimal texture.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together.

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

Complement your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A light side that adds crunch and balances the richness of the stroganoff.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic offer a hearty base that pairs perfectly.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus adds vibrant color and nutrition.
4. Simple Green Salad: Toss greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa provides protein while complementing the stroganoff’s flavors well.
6. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add texture and can be flavored with lemon zest for brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Ingredient Substitutions: Not adapting recipes to avoid prohibited ingredients can lead to unsatisfactory outcomes. Always consider alternatives like chicken or turkey instead of pork.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just done, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping spices can make your dish bland. Use smoked paprika, salt, and pepper generously for flavor depth.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Hurrying through the steps can compromise texture and taste. Take your time to sauté the onions and garlic properly for maximum flavor.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient broth may lead to a dry stroganoff. Ensure you add enough chicken broth for a creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach?
You can pair this dish with rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. A side of steamed vegetables also complements it well.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving for best results.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
You can substitute chicken with mushrooms or lentils while using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff without turkey bacon?
Simply omit the turkey bacon and increase the amount of chicken or add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor.

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use turkey, beef, or lamb instead of chicken for a different twist on this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach is a comforting dish that everyone will love. Its creamy texture combined with savory flavors makes it perfect for family dinners. Feel free to customize by adding mushrooms or different greens according to your preference!

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Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Wilted Spinach

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Wilted Spinach is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This dish features tender chicken thighs enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce, enhanced by the subtle smokiness of crispy turkey bacon and the freshness of wilted spinach. Quick to prepare and incredibly versatile, it’s perfect for family meals or impressing guests on special occasions. Serve it over rice or egg noodles for a hearty meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• Fresh spinach (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped turkey bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté diced onions until translucent (3-4 minutes), then add minced garlic for another minute.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and brown chicken thighs seasoned with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (about 5 minutes per side).
4. Reduce heat to medium; stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, then add chicken broth while scraping browned bits from the pan.
5. Mix in softened cream cheese until melted and combined; add sour cream and stir until smooth.
6. Return cooked turkey bacon to the skillet; gently fold in wilted spinach if desired, and serve warm over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 435
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 140mg