Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff

Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff is a delightful dish that brings comfort to any table. This recipe highlights tender chicken cooked to perfection, enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce that’s sure to please everyone. Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this slow cooker version makes preparation easy while delivering incredible flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Minimal effort required with the slow cooker, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken and spices creates a savory dish that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving over rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a creamy stroganoff; it’s a guaranteed hit at gatherings!
• Healthy Comfort Food: A great way to enjoy hearty flavors without compromising on health.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most of your Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff, having the right tools can make a significant difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking; perfect for tenderizing meat and melding flavors.
• Chef’s Knife: Ensures precise cuts for onions and garlic, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

For the Sauce

• 6 strips turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your onion, mincing the garlic, and cutting the chicken. This will make cooking smoother.

Step 2: Cook the turkey Bacon

In your slow cooker, place the chopped turkey bacon. Cook until crispy, then remove and set aside. Leave some turkey bacon drippings in the pot for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the onion to the slow cooker with leftover drippings. Sauté until translucent. Add in the minced garlic, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked turkey bacon, chicken pieces, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Once done cooking, shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. Stir everything together before serving. Enjoy over rice or pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff

Serving Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff can elevate your meal experience. This dish’s rich flavors pair well with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of thyme to enhance the earthy tones in the dish.

Over Noodles or Rice

• Egg Noodles: Serve the stroganoff over tender egg noodles for a classic pairing.
• White Rice: Light, fluffy rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, offering a delightful contrast.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and slight crunch complement the creamy texture.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a lovely sweetness that balances the savory flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Baguette Slices: Serve with toasted baguette slices to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds another layer of flavor while being perfect for dipping.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff

To achieve the best version of Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff, follow these essential tips. Each step will enhance flavor and texture for a comforting meal.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, boneless chicken thighs or breasts for tender and juicy results.
• Sauté Ingredients First: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker brings out their natural sweetness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; adding more Worcestershire sauce or paprika can elevate the flavor profile.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: Opting for low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control salt levels without sacrificing flavor.
• Thicken Sauce if Needed: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in some cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this rich dish beautifully.

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth texture that pairs perfectly with stroganoff.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds a nutty flavor and is packed with nutrients.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Tender green beans tossed with almonds create a crunchy contrast.
4. Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option offers a neutral taste while soaking up the stroganoff sauce.
5. Side Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing give a refreshing balance to the meal.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Always choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for optimal tenderness and flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the cooking time in your slow cooker to avoid dry chicken. It should be cooked just right for a creamy texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skip on spices! Proper seasoning enhances the dish’s flavor. Taste and adjust throughout the cooking process.
• Forgetting to sauté aromatics: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker deepens their flavors. Take that extra step for a richer taste.
• Not using enough liquid: Ensure there’s enough broth in the recipe to keep everything moist and flavorful. Adjust liquids as needed based on your slow cooker model.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff

• Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe that can help you perfect your dish.

Can I make Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff without turkey bacon?

You can substitute turkey bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely. The dish will still be delicious with just the rich chicken sauce.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff?

This dish pairs well with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I thicken Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef or turkey if you prefer different flavors while keeping it equally tasty.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken & turkey Bacon Stroganoff is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. This dish is sure to become a family favorite!