Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant spinach all in one pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and comforting textures. The combination of savory ingredients makes it a family favorite that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this dish quickly.
• Rich in Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with the savory chicken and crispy bacon creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile: This stroganoff pairs well with rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes, allowing you to customize your meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach, this recipe adds a healthy dose of greens to your dining table.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its deliciousness makes it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essentials you’ll need to prepare Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or saucepan: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken and combining the sauce without overflowing.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients gently without damaging your cookware.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

For the Sauce

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Greens

• 2 cups baby spinach

How to Make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces.
* Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
* Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Bacon and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add chopped bacon.
* Cook until crispy (about 3-4 minutes), then add diced onion.
* Sauté until onions become translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
* Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet.
* Pour in chicken broth while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
* Bring to a simmer before adding sour cream and heavy cream. Stir well.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with baby spinach.
* Cook until spinach wilts (about 2 minutes).

Step 5: Thicken if Desired

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry.
* Slowly stir this mixture into the sauce until desired thickness is reached.

Your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is now ready to be served! Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite side for a complete meal.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

Serving Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is an opportunity to showcase its rich flavors. Pair it thoughtfully for a delightful dining experience.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• Over Egg Noodles: The creamy sauce clings beautifully to egg noodles, enhancing each bite.
• With Rice: Serve over fluffy rice for a comforting meal that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
• On Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth base, making every forkful indulgent.

Creative Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: For extra flavor, top with Parmesan just before serving.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens the dish and balances the creaminess.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

To achieve the best version of Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts ensures tenderness and flavor.
• Sauté Properly: Cook the chicken until golden brown for a rich taste that enhances the dish.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently. This helps deepen the flavors.
• Adjust Consistency: Use cornstarch for thickening if desired; it creates an even creamier texture.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh spinach and garlic for maximum flavor impact.

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

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff enhances your meal. Here are some perfect options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a nutritious crunch; steam lightly to retain its vibrant color.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini complements the creamy dish.
4. Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of stroganoff.
5. Quinoa: This nutty grain offers a hearty base while adding protein to your meal.
6. Couscous: Fluffy couscous absorbs flavors well and makes for an easy-to-prepare side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the marinade: Don’t overlook marinating the chicken. A simple mix of olive oil, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce enhances flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Avoid tough chicken by cooking it just until golden and fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Ignoring seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. A pinch of salt or pepper can elevate your dish significantly.
• Using low-quality broth: Don’t skimp on broth quality. A good chicken broth adds depth to your creamy sauce, so choose a flavorful brand or make your own.
• Rushing the sauce: Be patient while thickening the sauce. Allow it to simmer gently for the best creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed through. Use a microwave-safe container.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you curious about this delightful recipe? Here are some common questions answered.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken in Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?

Yes! Turkey is a great alternative that will work well in this recipe while keeping the flavors intact.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute sour cream and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How do I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the onions.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. This dish is sure to become a family favorite!

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Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is a delightful one-pot meal that combines tender chicken and vibrant spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that will please the whole family. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, you can serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Plus, the addition of fresh spinach not only enhances the color but also packs in essential nutrients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, cook diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly.
3. Stir in Dijon mustard and chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pan for flavor. Bring to a simmer, then add sour cream and heavy cream; mix well.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet along with baby spinach and cook until spinach wilts (about 2 minutes).
5. If desired, thicken with cornstarch mixed with water until reaching your preferred consistency.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating mushrooms or other veggies during the sautéing step. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute sour cream and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut cream.