Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich and creamy flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. This comforting meal brings together fresh spinach and the satisfying crunch of crispy turkey bacon substitutes, all enveloped in a luscious sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of sour cream and heavy cream creates a luxurious sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the spinach or chicken for your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish fits right in.
Comfort Food Appeal: It’s hearty and satisfying, making it the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: A wide surface area allows for even cooking of chicken and ensures the sauce thickens properly.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients effectively.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stroganoff

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
4 slices thick-cut turkey bacon substitute, chopped
2 cups baby spinach
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce substitute (like apple cider vinegar)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
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 Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Add the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce substitute, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Creams

Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until fully incorporated. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with baby spinach. Stir until spinach wilts down into the sauce. If desired, mix in cornstarch to thicken further.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot over rice or pasta if desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach!

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

Serving your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Classic Over Egg Noodles

Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles for a traditional touch. The noodles soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

With Steamed Rice

Pair it with fluffy steamed rice. The rice complements the dish while adding a nice texture contrast.

On Mashed Potatoes

Spoon the stroganoff onto creamy mashed potatoes for an indulgent comfort food option. This will turn your stroganoff into a hearty meal.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping into the rich sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

With a Fresh Salad

Balance the richness of the stroganoff with a light salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.

In a Wrap

For a fun twist, use tortillas or flatbreads to wrap the stroganoff. This makes for an easy-to-eat option ideal for lunch or casual dining.

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

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon , consider these helpful tips:

Choose Quality Ingredients – Using fresh chicken and high-quality broth enhances flavor.
Sauté Onions Until Golden – Properly caramelizing onions brings out their sweetness, enriching the overall taste.
Don’t Overcook Chicken – Cook until just done to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Incorporate Spinach at the End – Adding spinach towards the end preserves its vibrant color and nutrients.
Adjust Consistency as Needed – Use cornstarch if you prefer a thicker sauce, ensuring it blends well without lumps.
Season Gradually – Taste as you go; adjusting seasoning at each step helps achieve balanced flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread – This crispy delight works wonderfully to scoop up sauce.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
Quinoa Salad – A nutty quinoa salad offers a healthy grain alternative, enhancing texture.
Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to creamy stroganoff.
Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans with almonds bring elegance and flavor balance.
Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors while providing lightness alongside rich stroganoff.
Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges add satisfying crunch, perfect for dipping in sauce.
Couscous Salad – Light couscous mixed with herbs complements the creamy dish nicely while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding overcooking the chicken. Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the right temperature (165°F).
Ignoring seasoning adjustments. Not tasting and adjusting the seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always sample your dish and add salt or pepper as needed.
Using low-quality broth. A poor-quality broth can affect the overall taste of your stroganoff. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for better flavor.
Forgetting to thicken the sauce properly. If your sauce is too thin, it won’t cling to the chicken and spinach well. Use cornstarch mixed with water for a quick thickening option if desired.
Skipping fresh ingredients. Using stale or wilted spinach will compromise freshness. Always choose vibrant, fresh greens to enhance both taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container to keep the creamy texture intact.
It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon

Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags for storage.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label containers with dates.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until warmed through.
Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring often until hot; add a splash of broth if needed for moisture.

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, flavorful dish made with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce, topped with crispy turkey bacon .

Can I make this dish without turkey bacon ?
Yes! You can omit turkey bacon or replace it with turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a different twist.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon ?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, making it versatile for any meal.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy turkey bacon ?
You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers or adjust spices to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach offers a delightful blend of flavors that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have available, making it a wonderful addition to any weeknight meal rotation. Try this recipe today and explore its endless possibilities!