Looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than Chicken Stroganoff. This hearty meal combines tender chicken pieces with a creamy, savory sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. A twist on the traditional beef stroganoff, this recipe brings you all the rich, classic flavors with a lighter protein option.
The Origins of Stroganoff
Stroganoff is a dish with a long history, originating in 19th-century Russia. Traditionally made with sautéed pieces of beef served in a sour cream sauce, it's named after the Stroganov family, a wealthy Russian aristocratic household. Over time, this dish evolved, spreading across the globe and inspiring variations like the chicken version you'll find in today’s recipe.
Chicken Stroganoff retains the creamy decadence of the original but offers a quicker-to-cook alternative. Whether you’re new to cooking or experienced, this dish is crowd-pleasing, quick, and easily adaptable to suit your preferences.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Packed with creamy, savory flavors that complement the tender chicken.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
- Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a full meal.
Now, let's get cooking!
Ingredients for Chicken Stroganoff
Before you start, gather these ingredients for the best results:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces (220g) mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini work best)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream OR sour cream (for a tangier flavor)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Wide egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for serving
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to make the perfect Chicken Stroganoff:
1. Prep the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s golden brown on the outside but still juicy on the inside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion, garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are soft and slightly caramelized.
3. Create the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring well to coat (this step helps thicken the sauce, but you can skip it for a lighter consistency). Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Once combined, add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.
4. Simmer the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken and its juices to the pan. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
5. Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve this creamy Chicken Stroganoff over wide egg noodles, fluffy rice, or a bed of mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Swap heavy cream for sour cream if you prefer a tangier sauce.
- Add a touch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
- For a healthier version, use plain Greek yogurt in place of cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Pairings and Side Ideas
Chicken Stroganoff pairs beautifully with buttered vegetables like green beans or broccoli. A warm side of crusty bread also works great for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stroganoff recipe is guaranteed to become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s comforting, versatile, and full of deep, rich flavors. Whether you're impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish delivers every time. Give it a try tonight and experience the deliciousness!
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