Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is a delightful dish perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep. This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, rich creaminess, and vibrant spinach, creating a hearty meal everyone will love. Best of all, it’s easy to make in your slow cooker, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a luscious sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken or add different vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Healthy Spinach Boost: Adding baby spinach not only enhances flavor but also packs in nutrients without compromising taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish fits any gathering beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon effectively, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These items will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken becomes tender and flavorful over hours.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and safe, helping to speed up your prep time.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Stroganoff

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 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 Serving

• 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 the Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients:
1. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
2. Dice the onion finely.
3. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Brown the Bacon (Optional)

If you prefer crispy bacon:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
2. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the chicken thighs or breasts.
2. Layer in the diced onion and minced garlic.
3. Pour in the chicken broth followed by Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir gently to combine everything well.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker:
1. Set it to low heat for about 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Spinach

About 30 minutes before serving:
1. Add softened cream cheese to the slow cooker.
2. Stir until it melts into a smooth sauce.
3. Gently fold in baby spinach until wilted.

Step 6: Serve Over Noodles

Once everything is ready:
1. Serve the creamy chicken stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or pasta of your choice.
2. Top with crispy bacon if desired for extra crunch!

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach!

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

Serving your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is just as important as preparing it. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish that will enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with parsley or chives – Chopped fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness to the creamy dish.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve on a bed of rice – The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy white or brown rice, soaking up the flavors.
• Try quinoa for a nutty flavor – Quinoa adds protein and has a delightful texture that complements the stroganoff.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty baguette or rolls – Serve warm bread for dipping in the creamy sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
• Garlic bread option – Add a twist by serving garlic bread alongside for an extra burst of flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Simple green salad – A light salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the stroganoff.
• Caesar salad twist – A Caesar salad can add crunch and flavor that pairs well with the creamy dish.

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

Perfecting this recipe will ensure you achieve that rich, creamy goodness everyone loves. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chicken – Fresh, boneless chicken thighs or breasts yield better flavors and textures.
• Sauté onions and garlic first – Pre-cooking these ingredients brings out their sweetness, enhancing the overall dish.
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Don’t hesitate to taste as you go; adjusting salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Incorporate vegetables early – Adding spinach earlier in the cooking process allows it to meld into the sauce for a richer taste.
• Experiment with herbs – Adding thyme or rosemary during cooking can introduce an aromatic element to your stroganoff.
• Choose your pasta wisely – The right pasta shape will hold onto the sauce better, providing a more satisfying bite.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff enhances your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the stroganoff.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a delightful contrast in texture while adding earthy flavors.
3. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes absorb the sauce perfectly, offering a hearty side that complements your main dish.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and acidity that cuts through the creaminess for a balanced meal.
5. Garlic Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots enhance your plate’s color while providing natural sweetness against savory flavors.
6. Buttered Corn on the Cob – Juicy corn brings seasonal sweetness that pairs wonderfully with rich sauces like stroganoff.
7. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – For a low-carb option, zoodles offer a light alternative while still enjoying all those delicious flavors.
8. Cucumber Tomato Salad – A refreshing salad adds crispness and brightness, making it an ideal counterpart to creamy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the chicken type: Using bone-in or skin-on chicken can lead to a greasy dish. Stick to boneless, skinless options for a creamy texture.
• Overcooking the ingredients: Slow cooking too long can make the chicken dry. Monitor cooking time and use a timer to avoid this mistake.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for better results.
• Skipping the sauté step: Not browning the onions and garlic first may reduce flavor depth. Always take a few minutes to sauté these ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Using regular cream instead of cream cheese: Regular cream won’t provide the same thickness and richness. Use softened cream cheese as specified for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to leave space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender chicken cooked slowly in a creamy sauce, featuring spinach for added nutrition.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey or turkey thighs work well as alternatives in this recipe while maintaining similar flavors.

How do I make it gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute traditional egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.

What can I serve with Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?
Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. You’ll get delicious flavor combinations!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is both comforting and versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste preferences.