Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

The Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is a delightful twist on the classic comfort dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, all while being easy to prepare in your slow cooker. The addition of spinach not only boosts the nutrition but adds a vibrant color. Plus, the savory flavors will keep everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do all the work.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce enriched with spices and herbs brings a depth of flavor that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over noodles, rice, or even on its own for a low-carb option.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish thanks to its comforting taste and creamy texture.
• Healthy Spinach Addition: Incorporating spinach adds essential nutrients while complementing the richness of the sauce.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is key for cooking the chicken slowly, enhancing its tenderness while developing rich flavors.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows you to chop ingredients quickly and safely, making prep easier.
• Mixing bowl: This helps in combining cream cheese and other ingredients smoothly before adding them to the slow cooker.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 6 strips bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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 and Pasta

• 2 cups baby spinach
• 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 Ingredients

Begin by prepping your ingredients:
1. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Brown the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat:
* Cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
* Remove from heat and set aside on paper towels.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the chicken pieces.
2. Layer in the diced onion and minced garlic.
3. Stir in the cooked bacon.

Step 4: Make Sauce Mixture

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

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Chicken Mixture

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in your slow cooker:
1. Gently stir to combine all ingredients well.
2. Cover with lid.

Step 6: Cook on Low

Set your slow cooker to low heat:
– Cook for about 6-7 hours until chicken is tender.

Step 7: Add Spinach Before Serving

About 15 minutes before serving:
– Stir in baby spinach until wilted.

Step 8: Serve

Once cooked:
– Serve over cooked egg noodles or pasta of choice for a hearty meal!

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

Serving Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creamy texture. Here are some delightful suggestions to complement your dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Green Onions: Add sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Salad Greens: Serve the stroganoff over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing crunch.
• Spinach Salad: Pair it with a simple spinach salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for extra nutrition.

With Additional Carbs

• Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve alongside fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal option.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added depth and richness.
• Feta Cheese Crumbles: Add feta crumbles for a tangy twist that pairs well with the creaminess.

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

To get the most out of your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish even further.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality broth enhance flavor significantly, making every bite delightful.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and spices to ensure the flavors are just right.
• Give It Time: Allow enough cooking time in the slow cooker for the chicken to become tender and absorb all flavors.
• Stir Gently: When adding spinach, stir gently at the end to avoid breaking down the leaves too much.
• Thicken If Needed: If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in until thickened.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit after cooking; this helps flavors meld together beautifully.

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

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

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements the stroganoff well.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with creamy sauces.
4. Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative absorbs flavors beautifully while providing a light base for your stroganoff.
5. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad mixed with veggies adds brightness and texture alongside your stroganoff.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and earthiness, making them an excellent match for savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their dish properly. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper for flavor enhancement.
• Not browning the chicken: Failing to brown the chicken before slow cooking can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to sear it for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the spinach: Adding spinach too early can cause it to wilt excessively. Stir it in towards the end of cooking for vibrant color and texture.
• Using cold cream cheese: If you use cold cream cheese, it may not blend smoothly. Ensure it’s softened at room temperature for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring the cooking time: Slow cookers vary in temperature settings. Monitor your dish to avoid overcooking or undercooking based on your model.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Use a microwave-safe container.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?
Serve this dish over cooked egg noodles or your favorite pasta for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor.

Can I make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy.

What can I substitute for chicken in Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?
You can use turkey or beef as alternatives, ensuring similar cooking times for tender results.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?
Adding herbs like thyme or fresh parsley can elevate your dish’s flavor profile significantly.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Try it today for an effortless dinner that satisfies everyone at the table!