Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff

Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and delights your taste buds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines tender chicken with savory turkey bacon in a rich and creamy sauce. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, so you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken and turkey bacon creates a deliciously savory dish that’s sure to please everyone.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Let your slow cooker do the work while you focus on other tasks or relax at home.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that kids love, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your meal develops rich flavors while you attend to other tasks.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and effortless, saving you time during preparation.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Bacon

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 6 strips turkey bacon, chopped

For the Sauce

• 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 Ingredients

First, gather all your ingredients on the countertop. Chop the onion and garlic finely. Cut the turkey bacon into small pieces.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In a slow cooker:
1. Add the chopped turkey bacon.
2. Layer in the chicken thighs or breasts on top of the bacon.
3. Sprinkle in the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Mix Sauce Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth until well combined.
2. Pour this mixture over the chicken and bacon in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once cooked:
1. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
2. Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir everything together.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle generous portions of creamy chicken & turkey bacon stroganoff over your choice of pasta or rice. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff

Serving Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and textures.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves – Add a few thyme leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the dish.

Over Noodles or Rice

• Egg Noodles – Serve the stroganoff over tender egg noodles to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Rice – A bed of fluffy rice works perfectly to balance the richness of the stroganoff.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds a nutritious crunch alongside the creamy texture.
• Roasted Carrots – Sweet, roasted carrots offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Chicken – Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor.
• Cook Low and Slow – Set your slow cooker on low to allow the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
• Thicken the Sauce – If you desire a thicker sauce, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last cooking hour.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting base.
2. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide crunch and color.
3. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that soaks up the stroganoff sauce wonderfully.
4. Side Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers freshness and balance.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a delightful crispness that pairs nicely.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add a hint of sweetness to complement the savory dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong meat: Ensure you stick to boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for the best texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the turkey bacon: Cook the turkey bacon until crispy but be careful not to burn it; add it at the right time for optimal taste.
• Ignoring seasoning: Don’t skip the seasoning steps. Properly season your dish with salt, pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce for a rich flavor.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Allow your dish to cook in the slow cooker long enough to develop flavors. A minimum of 4 hours on low is recommended.
• Skipping the mustard: Dijon mustard adds depth; omitting it will result in a less flavorful stroganoff. Always include it for that creamy kick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff

• Freeze in a sturdy container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff?
Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff is a comforting dish made with tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a creamy sauce that’s perfect over noodles or rice.

Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Feel free to adjust spices based on your preference as well.

How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, while cooking in a slow cooker takes approximately 4-6 hours on low.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef or lamb if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff stores well and is perfect for meal prepping; just follow storage instructions above.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken & turkey bacon Stroganoff is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with creamy goodness. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal any day of the week!