Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon is a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This creamy concoction combines tender chicken with rich flavors and vibrant spinach, making it a hit for various occasions. With minimal effort required, this slow cooker recipe will leave you with a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a luxurious sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap protein or pasta types based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Spinach Addition: The baby spinach not only adds color but also boosts nutrition without compromising taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon requires just a few essential tools. Having these on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Ideal for hands-off cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts, making preparation quick and easy.

this recipe

Ingredients

To create this delicious creamy dish, gather the following 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 preparing all your ingredients:
1. Chop the turkey bacon into small pieces.
2. Finely dice the onion.
3. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Place all prepared ingredients in the slow cooker:
– Add the chicken thighs or breasts at the bottom.
– Sprinkle in chopped turkey bacon , diced onion, and minced garlic.

Step 3: Mix in Creamy Components

In a separate bowl:
– Combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
– Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything in Slow Cooker

Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 5: Cook Time

Cover the slow cooker:
– Set it to low heat and cook for about 6 hours or until chicken is tender.
– Alternatively, you can set it to high heat for about 3 hours if you’re short on time.

Step 6: Add Spinach

About 30 minutes before serving:
– Stir in baby spinach into the slow cooker.
– Cover again and let it wilt down.

Step 7: Serve Over Pasta

Once done:
– Serve over cooked egg noodles or your preferred pasta. Enjoy your creamy delight!

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. Pairing it right can elevate the dish and make it even more enjoyable for your guests or family.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in wide, shallow bowls to highlight the creamy sauce.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.

With Bread

• Pair with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Offer garlic bread for added flavor that complements the dish.

Over Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle extra sauce on top for enhanced flavor.

Accompanied by Salad

• A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the stroganoff.
• Consider adding cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for added crunch.

As a Wrap

• Use tortillas to create chicken stroganoff wraps for a fun twist.
• Add some lettuce or spinach to add freshness.

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

Creating a perfect Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Choose the Right Chicken: Use boneless, skinless thighs for juicier results compared to breasts.
• Sauté First: Sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker for deeper flavors.
• Control Your Consistency: Adjust broth amount if you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce; start with less and add as needed.
• Add Spinach Last: Stir in baby spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep it vibrant and fresh.
• Season Well: Taste and adjust salt and pepper towards the end to ensure balanced flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes that complement the stroganoff’s rich sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds a healthy grain component.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds freshness and crunch; drizzle lemon juice for flavor.
5. Coleslaw: Crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up the sauce beautifully while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• One common mistake is using the wrong cut of chicken. Always choose boneless, skinless thighs or breasts for the best texture in your creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff.
• Another error is not seasoning adequately. Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process for maximum flavor.
• A frequent oversight is overcooking the spinach. Add baby spinach towards the end of cooking to keep it vibrant and nutritious.
• Many people also mistakenly skip the cream cheese. This ingredient adds creaminess; ensure it’s softened before mixing into the dish for even blending.
• Lastly, avoid using untested pasta types. Stick to egg noodles or pasta that holds up well in a creamy sauce to enhance your stroganoff experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain quality.

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

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the mixture may expand when frozen.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot, about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through, usually taking about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for turkey bacon in Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach?
You can omit it altogether. Adding extra spices can enhance the flavor without meat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options that you enjoy.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach?
It typically takes about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat in a slow cooker.

Can I add vegetables other than spinach?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like mushrooms or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff is perfect for meal prep; just store portions separately for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach offers a rich and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a delightful dish for guests, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. Give it a try!

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Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe uses a slow cooker to meld flavors effortlessly, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With minimal effort required, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Serve it over your choice of pasta or rice for a hearty and delicious experience.

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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
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 12 oz cooked pasta of choice

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Instructions

1. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Add the onion and garlic.
4. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or high for about 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in baby spinach until wilted.
8. Serve over cooked pasta.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For added flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. Feel free to substitute spinach with other vegetables like mushrooms or peas. This recipe is great for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container.