Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

The Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon is a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, uplifted by the freshness of spinach. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the magic.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and chicken broth creates an irresistible creamy sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it over egg noodles, rice, or even in wraps for a delightful twist.
• Healthy Spinach Boost: Adding spinach not only enhances flavor but also packs in nutrients.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults with its delicious taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure your stroganoff turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool is key for achieving that tender chicken while developing deep flavors over low heat.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for consistency in flavor.

Ingredients

Protein & Vegetables

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

Creamy Base

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

Seasonings & Extras

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Carbohydrate Base

• 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

Begin by preparing your ingredients:
1. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces if using breasts.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the chicken pieces.
2. Sprinkle in the diced onion and minced garlic.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Add Creamy Components

Next:
1. Place softened cream cheese on top of the other ingredients without stirring yet.
2. Cover with a lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach

About 30 minutes before serving:
1. Stir in the baby spinach until just wilted.
2. Allow it to cook with the lid on during this time.

Step 5: Serve Over Pasta

Once cooked:
1. Prepare your egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. Serve the creamy chicken stroganoff over hot noodles for a delicious meal!

Enjoy your delightful Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach that’s both simple to prepare and full of flavor!

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

Serving your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish that enhances its flavors and appeal.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles for a classic combination that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. A baguette or sourdough works great!

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for added color and a burst of flavor.

In a Bowl

• Serve in deep bowls for a cozy, comforting meal. This makes it easy to enjoy every bit of the creamy stroganoff.

As a Wrap

• Use tortillas or flatbreads to make wraps filled with the chicken stroganoff for a fun and portable meal option.

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

Creating the perfect Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions will enhance the overall flavor profile of your stroganoff.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or paprika as needed for personalized flavor.
• Thicken if needed: If your sauce is too thin, mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
• Cook on low: Cooking on low for longer allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender chicken and rich sauce.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like thyme or oregano for more depth in flavor.

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

Complementing your creamy dish with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair well.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and balances the richness of the stroganoff.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the sauce.
3. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out natural flavors without overpowering the main dish.
4. Simple Garden Salad: A fresh salad dressed lightly can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy stroganoff.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs sauces well, making it an excellent choice for this dish.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a crisp texture that complements the creamy elements nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• It’s easy to overlook the importance of seasoning. Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go.
• Many people skip the browning step for chicken. Browning adds depth to the flavor. Take a few minutes to sear the chicken first for better results.
• A common error is using low-quality broth. Using homemade or high-quality chicken broth enhances the richness of the dish. Opt for a flavorful broth for the best outcome.
• Don’t forget about cooking time variations. Slow cookers can vary in heat levels, so check your dish periodically to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
• Skipping fresh ingredients like spinach may lead to a less vibrant dish. Always add fresh greens at the end of cooking for color and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

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 best quality.

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 heat for about 20 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You could use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to maintain creaminess while altering the flavor slightly.

How does spinach affect the dish?

Spinach adds not only nutrition but also vibrant color and a slight earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I prepare this creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is both comforting and versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping out proteins or adding seasonal vegetables. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings—give it a try!