Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and nutritious spinach, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The ease of preparation in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. It’s a versatile meal that can be served over pasta or rice, ensuring satisfaction for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it until mealtime.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and Dijon mustard creates a savory, creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
• Nutritious Spinach: Packed with vitamins, spinach adds color and health benefits to this hearty meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over egg noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes for different experiences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and delicious taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The heart of this recipe, allowing for a hands-off cooking method that results in tender chicken.
• Chef’s Knife: A good knife ensures precise cuts for even cooking and easier handling of ingredients.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream before adding them to the slow cooker.

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 Spinach

• 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 chopping the Turkey bacon into small pieces. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped Turkey bacon until crispy. Remove it from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Assemble in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Place the chicken at the bottom.
2. Sprinkle the cooked Turkey bacon over the chicken.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic on top.

Step 4: Mix Sauce Ingredients

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

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Chicken

Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken in your slow cooker.

Step 6: Cook on Low

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender.

Step 7: Add Spinach

About 15 minutes before serving:
1. Stir in baby spinach into the slow cooker.
2. Allow it to wilt as you prepare your pasta.

Step 8: Serve Over Noodles

Once everything is ready:
1. Serve generous portions of stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or your preferred pasta.
2. Enjoy this delicious meal!

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

Serving your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delicious ways to present this comforting dish.

Over Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles are the classic choice for stroganoff, soaking up the creamy sauce perfectly. Cook them separately and serve the chicken mixture on top for a hearty meal.

On Rice

• For a gluten-free option, serve the stroganoff over steamed rice. The rice absorbs the flavors, making every bite enjoyable.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your dish with crusty bread or dinner rolls. This adds texture and is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, use tortillas to wrap the stroganoff. This makes for easy eating and is great for lunch or a picnic.

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

To ensure your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff is as delicious as possible, follow these simple tips.

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds more flavor and tenderness compared to breasts.
• Sauté before slow cooking: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavor.
• Add spinach at the end: Stir in baby spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for vibrant color and freshness.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; you may want to add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar for brightness.

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

Pairing side dishes with your creamy stroganoff can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli complements the richness of stroganoff while adding nutrients.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and flavor variety to your meal.
4. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve stroganoff over cauliflower rice, which soaks up all the sauces wonderfully.
5. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the creamy dish.
6. Quinoa: This protein-packed grain is an excellent gluten-free option that complements the flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the chicken searing: Not browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to less flavor. Always sear for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the spinach: Adding spinach too early can cause it to wilt and lose nutrients. Add it in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each broth can vary in saltiness. Taste and adjust salt and pepper for your preference.
• Using low-quality cream cheese: A poor-quality cream cheese can affect texture. Opt for a full-fat cream cheese for creaminess.
• Forgetting to stir occasionally: Not stirring can lead to uneven cooking. Give your stroganoff a gentle stir halfway through the cooking time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stroganoff in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this creamy dish.

How do I make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon healthier?

You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for fewer calories and added protein. Also, consider whole grain noodles for more fiber.

Can I substitute ingredients in Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon?

Absolutely! You can use turkey instead of chicken or switch out egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta option.

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. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Turkey Bacon?

Typically, it takes about 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat in the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is not only rich in flavor but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!

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Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This mouthwatering recipe features tender chicken cooked to perfection in a rich and creamy sauce, complemented by nutritious spinach. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully throughout the day. Serve it over your choice of pasta or rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 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
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped Turkey bacon until crispy; drain on paper towels.
3. In your slow cooker, layer diced chicken, cooked Turkey bacon, onion, and garlic.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours until chicken is tender.
7. Stir in spinach during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
8. Serve over cooked egg noodles or your preferred pasta.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 95mg