Welcome to Comfort Food Heaven!
Hey there, friend! Are you in the mood for something that wraps you in a cozy hug? Let me introduce you to my favorite recipe: Creamy Chicken & Turkey Bacon Mushroom Stroganoff! This dish is not just delicious, but it’s also comfort food at its finest. I love making it after a long day—it’s easy to whip up and just so satisfying! Trust me; you’ll want to add this one to your regular dinner rotation.
Nutritional Benefits
You might not think of creamy dishes as healthy, but let’s break down some of the goodness in this stroganoff! Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps in muscle building and overall health. Plus, turkey bacon is significantly lower in fat compared to traditional bacon, allowing you to enjoy that smoky flavor without all the guilt. And let’s not forget about mushrooms! They’re packed with vitamins and minerals, not to mention they add tons of flavor. If you’re looking for a meal that satisfies your comfort cravings while also being somewhat nutritious, this recipe is a winner!
Fun Variations to Make
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. This keeps the dish creamy while accommodating lactose intolerance!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with hearty veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. You could also use chickpeas for added protein!
- Gluten-Free Twist: Use gluten-free pasta instead of egg noodles to make this dish accessible for everyone.
Your Guide to a Creamy Chicken & Turkey Bacon Mushroom Stroganoff
Ingredients List:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (sliced into strips)
- 4 ounces turkey bacon (chopped)
- 8 ounces mushrooms (sliced, preferably cremini or white mushrooms)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- 12 ounces egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Serves 4 people
- Standard main-course portions → 4 servings
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the chicken breast into strips, chopping the turkey bacon, and slicing the mushrooms. Don’t forget to finely chop the onion and mince the garlic for that extra flavor kick!
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re nice and al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside—this will be the perfect base for the stroganoff.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped turkey bacon and cook it until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the bacon from the skillet and leave that tasty grease in the pan!
- Sauté Onions and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms, cooking until they’re softened and all their moisture has evaporated, about another 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Now it’s the chicken’s turn! Add the sliced chicken breast to the skillet, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add in the chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring everything to a gentle simmer—trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible!
- Make it Creamy: Gradually pour in that luscious heavy cream, stirring well to combine everything. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, becoming all creamy and dreamy.
- Finish the Dish: Toss in the cooked egg noodles, mixing everything together until the pasta is coated with that creamy sauce. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper as needed!
- Serve: Dish out the creamy chicken and bacon mushroom stroganoff into bowls. Garnish with the crispy turkey bacon and some freshly chopped parsley on top. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on some grated Parmesan cheese!
- Enjoy: Serve warm and get ready to indulge in this comforting dish. It’s one that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Practical Tips for You!
- For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen up the sauce!
- If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, cook everything except the noodles and combine just before serving.
- Feel free to customize your add-ins! Broccoli or spinach would make a lovely pop of color and extra nutrition.
Equipment Needed
Gather the following tools to make your cooking experience a breeze:
- A large skillet (for sautéing and simmering)
- A pot for boiling pasta
- A cutting board and chef’s knife
- A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- A cooking spoon for tasting and adjusting flavors
- A couple of bowls for serving
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta you love will work well in this dish. Just cook according to the package instructions!
- Is there a way to make it spicier? You can add some red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce when you add the broth for a nice kick.
- What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk with a tablespoon of flour to achieve a similar texture.
- Can I use leftovers from a rotisserie chicken? Yes! It’s a great way to save time and use up leftovers. Just throw it in toward the end for warming.
- How long can leftovers last? In the fridge, leftovers should be good for 3-4 days in an airtight container!
Let’s Connect!
Have you tried making the creamy chicken & turkey bacon mushroom stroganoff? I would love to hear how it turned out for you! Remember to snap a pic and share your creation on Pinterest. Happy cooking, and here’s to more cozy meals to enjoy together!
