Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its satisfying flavors and delightful textures, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, the addition of spinach adds a lovely pop of color and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss all ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and chicken broth creates a deliciously creamy sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with noodles, rice, or even serve it over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Healthy Spinach Addition: Incorporating spinach not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value.
• Family Favorite: This hearty dish is sure to become a staple in your household.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff, you’ll need some essential tools that will help ensure everything cooks perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken remains tender and flavorful as it simmers.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, resulting in uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision in measuring ingredients guarantees consistent results every time you make this dish.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

For the Sauce

• 6 strips 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 Greens

• 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 Bacon

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the bacon into small pieces. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Set these aside for later use.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped bacon on top of the chicken followed by diced onion and minced garlic.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

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

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce mixture over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Ensure that everything is well coated.

Step 5: Cooking Time

Cover and cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded.

Step 6: Add Spinach

In the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, stir in baby spinach until wilted.

Step 7: Serve

Once done cooking, serve your creamy slow cooker chicken stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or pasta of your choice. Enjoy this delightful meal!

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

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

Classic Presentation

• Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles for a traditional approach that highlights the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Adding chopped fresh parsley or chives on top can enhance the flavor and add a pop of color to your dish.

Side of Vegetables

• Pair your stroganoff with steamed green beans or broccoli for a healthy, balanced meal that complements the richness of the dish.

Bread for Dipping

• Offer slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. They are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Salad Starter

• A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette works well as an appetizer before serving the stroganoff.

Meal Prep Containers

• For easy lunches, portion out servings into meal prep containers. This makes for a convenient grab-and-go option during busy weekdays.

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

Perfecting your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is all about technique and timing. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your cooking process.

• Choose quality chicken – Selecting high-quality chicken thighs or breasts can make a significant difference in taste and texture.

• Sauté vegetables first – Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker brings out their natural flavors, adding depth to your dish.

• Adjust seasonings – Taste your sauce before serving. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or even extra smoked paprika for additional flavor.

• Use low-sodium broth – Opting for low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of your dish while still maintaining rich flavor.

• Add spinach last – Stirring in baby spinach at the end of cooking ensures it retains its vibrant color and nutrients without becoming overly wilted.

• Let it rest – Allowing the finished stroganoff to sit for a few minutes before serving helps thicken the sauce further, enhancing its creaminess.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich flavors of stroganoff beautifully.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized sprouts provide a crunchy texture that balances out the soft noodles and sauce.

3. Crispy Kale Chips – Lightly seasoned kale chips offer a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy dish.

4. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds brightness to your table setting.

5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that helps cut through the richness of the stroganoff sauce.

6. Steamed Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned bring both color and nutrition, making them an ideal pairing option.

7. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn can be grilled or boiled, providing a delightful sweetness that contrasts well with savory flavors.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes offers a nutritious accompaniment that enhances your meal’s overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid overcooking the chicken. This can lead to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.
• Never skip the cream cheese step. It adds creaminess and richness. Make sure it’s softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
• Don’t forget to season properly. Under-seasoning can make the dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Be cautious with the spinach addition. Adding it too early can result in overcooked greens. Stir it in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for freshness.
• Avoid using low-quality broth. Great flavor starts with a good quality chicken broth. Opt for homemade or a trusted brand for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries about making Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey works well in this recipe. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

What pasta works best with Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?

Egg noodles are traditional, but any pasta shape you prefer will work great!

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add mushrooms or carrots for extra vegetables. Adjust spices based on your flavor preferences too!

How long does it take to cook?

The cooking time is about 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high in the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is a delightful dish that combines comfort with convenience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Customize it further by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give it a try—your family will love it!