Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, savory bacon, and rich flavors in a creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe stands out with its comforting taste and ease of preparation. The added spinach not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a pop of color to your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of crispy bacon and creamy sauce creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Spinach adds vitamins while complementing the heartiness of the chicken and bacon.
• Family Favorite: With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach, you will need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and allows you to achieve that perfect sear on the chicken.
• Chef’s Knife: Having a sharp chef’s knife makes chopping onions and garlic easy and quick.
• Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing the flavors in your creamy sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

For the Bacon

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

For the Aromatics

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

For the Sauce

• 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 Bacon and Wilted Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon.
2. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove bacon from skillet and set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same skillet with some bacon drippings left, add diced onion.
2. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken thighs with smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
2. Increase heat to medium-high; add chicken to skillet.
3. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Lower heat to medium; stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
3. Add softened cream cheese; stir until melted into a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream

1. Once combined well, stir in sour cream until smooth.
2. Return crispy bacon to skillet; mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Wilt the Spinach

1. Add fresh spinach directly into the skillet.
2. Stir gently until wilted down but still vibrant green.

Now your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach is ready to serve! Enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week!

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

Serving Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach can enhance the dish’s flavors and presentation. Here are some creative ideas to make your serving experience delightful.

Over Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles are a classic choice for serving stroganoff. Their soft texture complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

On Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the stroganoff on a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up the rich sauce, making every bite delicious.

With Rice

• White or brown rice works well for a lighter option. It balances the richness of the creamy sauce while adding heartiness.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the stroganoff in a bread bowl. This adds not only flavor but also an edible container that guests will love.

With Crusty Bread

• Pairing with crusty bread allows you to scoop up every bit of creamy goodness. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little crunch with their meal.

On a Bed of Spinach

• For added nutrition, serve over wilted spinach. It enhances the dish’s flavor while incorporating more greens into your meal.

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

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your dish taste even better.

• Cook bacon until crispy: Ensuring the bacon is crispy adds texture and richness that elevates the whole dish.

• Soften cream cheese: Make sure to soften cream cheese beforehand for easy blending into the sauce, which creates that luscious creaminess.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference for a personalized flavor profile.

• Add spinach last: Stir in wilted spinach just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value.

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

Pairing your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up creamy sauces; its buttery flavor pairs well with stroganoff.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright color to your plate.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provides sweetness and texture.
4. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and tanginess that balances the richness of stroganoff.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that offers a neutral base without overpowering flavors.
6. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the bacon: Don’t skip the bacon as it adds a rich flavor. Cook it until crispy for the best taste.
• Using low-quality chicken: Choose fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs. This ensures tenderness and absorbs flavors well.
• Overcooking the spinach: Adding spinach too early can lead to overcooking. Add it at the end for vibrant color and texture.
• Not balancing flavors: Be mindful of seasoning. Taste as you go to adjust salt, pepper, and spices for a well-rounded dish.
• Ignoring cream cheese temperature: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Creamy Chicken Stroganoff will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid hot spots.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach?

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy sauce, and nutritious spinach for a hearty meal.

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or even beef for different flavors while keeping the creamy sauce base intact.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu, omit bacon, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Crispy Bacon and Wilted Spinach is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Try it today for a comforting meal that everyone will love!