Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, rich flavors, and nutritious spinach. Perfect for weekday dinners or special occasions, this creamy stroganoff brings comfort to your table. The addition of crispy turkey bacon elevates the taste, making it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this meal quickly.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sour cream, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth creates a creamy sauce that is bursting with flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and lean chicken, this recipe provides essential vitamins and proteins.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties, it’s sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Ensuring you have everything on hand will make your experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for evenly cooking the chicken and creating the creamy sauce.
• Sharp knife: Helps in easily chopping ingredients like onions and garlic without hassle.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stroganoff

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 4 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, chopped
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Additional Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Step 1: Cook the turkey Bacon

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet with some of the rendered turkey bacon fat:
1. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet:
1. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook until browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Ensure the chicken is cooked through; use a meat thermometer if needed.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Once the chicken is done:
1. Stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat before adding sour cream and heavy cream; mix well.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Fold in baby spinach:
– Cook just until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return crispy turkey bacon to the skillet:
– Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 7: Thicken If Desired

If you prefer a thicker sauce:
– Mix cornstarch with water; add it slowly while stirring until desired consistency is reached.

Now you are ready to serve this delicious Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Enjoy it over Pasta

• Serve the creamy stroganoff over your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or egg noodles, to soak up the rich sauce.

Pair with Rice

• White or brown rice makes an excellent base for this dish, allowing you to enjoy every last drop of the creamy sauce.

Serve with Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the stroganoff perfectly and add an extra layer of comfort to your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and added flavor.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• A side of warm, crusty bread is great for dipping into the creamy sauce and adds texture to your meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken Stroganoff requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken and organic spinach for the best flavor. Opt for high-quality broth for richness.
• Sauté Properly: Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Control Heat: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the ingredients and creating a bitter flavor. This allows for even cooking.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the stroganoff. This gives you control over thickness.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Steamed Vegetables – A mix of broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color and nutrients to balance your plate.
2. Garlic Bread – This classic side not only complements the flavors but also provides a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy dish.
3. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a lovely freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich stroganoff.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the main dish.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which helps cut through the richness of the stroganoff.
6. Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice serves as a great alternative while keeping meals light and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Selecting bone-in or skin-on chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to boneless, skinless cuts for a tender result.
• Overcooking the spinach: Cooking the spinach for too long can turn it mushy and lose its vibrant color. Add it towards the end of cooking for a fresher taste.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings may leave your stroganoff bland. Always taste before serving and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Omitting cornstarch can result in a thinner sauce. If you prefer a thicker texture, mix it with a little water before adding it to the sauce.
• Using low-quality broth: A weak broth can diminish flavor. Use a good-quality chicken broth for a richer, more satisfying dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

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

Reheating Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?
Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and crispy turkey bacon-like bits for added texture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free version and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.

How can I customize Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?
Feel free to add mushrooms or other vegetables for extra flavor. You can also substitute turkey or beef for variation.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with mushrooms or another protein source like tofu, and omit turkey bacon while using smoked paprika for flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey Bacon?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting flavors according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any dinner occasion!