Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

The Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the rich flavors of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy bacon. This recipe stands out for its lush texture and vibrant color from fresh spinach, making it suitable for family dinners, date nights, or even casual gatherings with friends. Whip up this comforting meal any day of the week and impress your loved ones with its fantastic taste and simple preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich flavors: The combination of sour cream, Dijon mustard, and crispy bacon creates an irresistible sauce.
• Nutrient-rich: Fresh baby spinach adds a dose of vitamins while enhancing the dish’s color and texture.
• Versatile meal: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Crowd-pleaser: Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a hit with both kids and adults.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet helps in even cooking of the chicken and creates the perfect base for your sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for stirring without scratching your skillet surface.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are critical for balancing flavors in your stroganoff.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

For the Sauce

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 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 Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

First, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove it from the pan and set aside on paper towels to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In the same skillet with a bit of rendered bacon fat:
1. Add olive oil if needed.
2. Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the skillet.
3. Cook until golden brown on both sides (about 6-7 minutes per side).
4. Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Add diced onion; sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
3. Mix in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Pour in chicken broth; scrape up any browned bits from the pan.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Lower the heat; add sour cream and heavy cream to the skillet.
2. If using cornstarch for thickening, mix it with a bit of water before adding it to the sauce.
3. Stir well until combined; return sliced chicken to skillet along with baby spinach.

Step 5: Final Touches

Cook until spinach wilts and everything is heated through (about 2-3 minutes). Return crispy bacon to the pan just before serving.

Enjoy your creamy chicken stroganoff served over your choice of pasta or rice!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

Serving Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Fresh Pasta

• Fresh pasta pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Over Rice

• Serving the stroganoff over fluffy white or brown rice creates a satisfying meal that balances textures.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the sauce and adding a crunchy contrast.

On Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting base for this dish, enhancing its richness.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, use tortillas to wrap the stroganoff, creating a savory handheld meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

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

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh chicken and high-quality bacon will enhance the overall flavor significantly.

• Cook at the Right Temperature: Sauté chicken on medium-high heat to ensure it browns nicely without becoming dry.

• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently to allow all flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in cornstarch gradually until desired thickness is achieved.

• Add Herbs for Flavor: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end for an extra burst of freshness.

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

Pairing sides with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up sauce while adding rich flavor.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A simple, healthy side that adds color and nutrients.
3. Roasted Asparagus: The slight char complements the creaminess of the stroganoff.
4. Garden Salad: A light salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa offers a gluten-free option packed with protein.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness balances out the savory elements in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon, even small errors can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using low-quality chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs or breasts. This choice significantly impacts the dish’s overall taste and tenderness.

• Overcooking the bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy but not burnt. Overcooked bacon can become too tough and lose its delightful flavor.

• Skipping the garlic and onion: These ingredients add depth to your stroganoff. Always sauté them until fragrant before adding other elements.

• Neglecting to taste as you cook: Seasoning is key! Taste throughout the cooking process to adjust flavors, ensuring a well-balanced dish.

• Not letting it simmer enough: Allowing the dish to simmer enhances flavors. Don’t rush this step; give it time to develop that creamy goodness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for better tracking.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts at medium power, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth if it appears too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon that might help you prepare this delicious meal!

Can I use different greens instead of spinach?

Yes! You can substitute kale or Swiss chard. Just ensure they are cooked down properly before serving.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cornstarch instead of regular cornstarch and verify that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

What sides pair well with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon?

Consider serving it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a cozy meal that’s comforting and filling.

How do I adjust the creaminess of my stroganoff?

You can reduce or increase heavy cream based on your preference. For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with more chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Spinach and Crispy Bacon is not only comforting but also adaptable. Feel free to customize it by adding mushrooms or changing up the spices. This dish promises warmth and satisfaction on any night of the week, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks!