Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. This version replaces traditional turkey bacon with crispy turkey bacon, ensuring a savory bite without compromising on taste. The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken thighs and wilted spinach, creating a comforting meal that will please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish is great for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of spices, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard delivers a deep, satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta.
• Comforting and Creamy: The creamy sauce envelops the chicken perfectly, offering a delightful texture in every bite.
• Healthier Alternative: Using turkey bacon offers a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all your tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing space for stirring the sauce.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

For the Sauce

• 6 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sour cream

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

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Begin by heating your 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, add diced onions. Sauté until they become translucent. Stir in minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken Thighs

Add the boneless chicken thighs to the skillet. Season them with smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Once the chicken is browned, stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring this mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Spinach

Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese and stir until it’s fully melted into the sauce. Fold in wilted spinach until combined.

Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream

Finally, stir in sour cream for added creaminess. Allow everything to heat through before serving with crispy turkey bacon sprinkled on top for an added crunch. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Stroganoff!

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

Serving Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this delicious dish.

Over Rice

• Serve the stroganoff over a bed of fluffy rice for a comforting and filling meal.

With Egg Noodles

• Pair with egg noodles to soak up the rich sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

On Mashed Potatoes

• For a hearty option, ladle the stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes, adding an extra layer of comfort.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer some crusty bread on the side to scoop up the sauce, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, wrap the stroganoff in a tortilla for a portable meal that’s perfect for lunch.

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

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables enhance flavor and texture.
• Cook turkey bacon crispy: Ensure your turkey bacon is crispy for added crunch and depth in flavor.
• Don’t rush cooking: Allow enough time for chicken to cook through without drying out.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook; seasonings can be adjusted based on personal preference.
• Let it simmer: Allow the dish to simmer gently to help flavors meld beautifully together.

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

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with suitable side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the creaminess of the stroganoff.
2. Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread offers a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds sweetness and texture.
4. Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter option, cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well.
5. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad provides a crisp contrast to the richness of the dish, enhancing your meal’s overall balance.
6. Quinoa: Nutty quinoa is not only nutritious but also complements the stroganoff’s creamy texture wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the marinating step: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just done, ensuring it remains juicy.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can affect the overall flavor of your dish. Always opt for a good quality chicken broth for the best results.
• Neglecting to adjust seasoning: Every ingredient varies, and so should your seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly for a balanced flavor.
• Forgetting the spinach: Wilting the spinach adds both nutrition and color. Don’t skip this step; incorporate it just before serving for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Warm on medium power in 1-minute increments until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach?
This dish features tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with crispy turkey bacon and wilted spinach, creating a comforting meal.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Turkey thighs are a great substitute that will work well in this recipe.

How do I make this dish healthier?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for added flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach?
It pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in!

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Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Turkey Bacon and Wilted Spinach is a delightful dish that elevates your dinner experience with rich flavors and comforting textures. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken thighs enveloped in a creamy sauce, complemented by the savory crunch of crispy turkey bacon and the vibrant freshness of wilted spinach.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 6 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• Fresh spinach (to taste)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. Sauté diced onions in the same skillet until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Brown the chicken thighs seasoned with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard and chicken broth; simmer while scraping up brown bits.
5. Reduce heat and mix in softened cream cheese until melted; fold in wilted spinach.
6. Finally, stir in sour cream for extra creaminess before serving with crispy turkey bacon on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 150mg