Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this Slow Cooker Chicken & Mushroom Stroganoff recipe. Bursting with rich flavors and creamy textures, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Let’s dive into the details and savor every mouthful of this delectable creation.
Ingredients:
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 10.5-ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 onion, sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Egg noodles, cooked according to package for serving
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a slow cooker, combine the cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs, sliced mushrooms, and onion to the slow cooker. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- Stir everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, give the mixture a final stir to ensure everything is well combined.
- Serve the Chicken & Mushroom Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Garlic: Enhance the flavor profile by adding minced garlic to the slow cooker along with the chicken and mushrooms.
- Use Different Proteins: Substitute the chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even beef stew meat for a different twist on this classic dish.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a vegetarian-friendly version. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? A: Yes, you can absolutely use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from becoming dry.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before. Store it covered in the refrigerator overnight, then simply place it in the slow cooker and start cooking when ready.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: While you can freeze leftovers, keep in mind that dairy-based sauces like this one may separate slightly upon thawing. To minimize this, thaw the frozen dish overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a combination of chicken broth and heavy cream. You can also omit the egg noodles and serve the Chicken & Mushroom Stroganoff over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead.
Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb option, use a reduced-fat cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese. Skip the egg noodles entirely and serve the stroganoff over steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Chicken & Mushroom Stroganoff recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and comfort in cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can create a hearty and flavorful meal that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s both easy and incredibly satisfying!
