Chicken Stroganoff

An easy and delicious Chicken Stroganoff is the perfect answer for busy weeknights when you want to serve a meal that everyone will enjoy. This comforting dish features juicy chicken in a creamy mushroom gravy, bringing together classic flavors that warm the soul. It’s versatile enough for family dinners or special occasions, making it a must-try recipe for any home chef.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes needed from start to finish, this dish fits seamlessly into your busy schedule.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and seasonings creates a deep and satisfying flavor profile.
• Family Favorite: Chicken Stroganoff is loved by both kids and adults, ensuring that mealtime is always a hit.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over egg noodles, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe encapsulates the warmth and comfort of traditional stroganoff, making it perfect for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable while preparing Chicken Stroganoff, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Ensures easy cooking and cleaning, preventing food from sticking to the surface.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and mushrooms quick and efficient.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavors in your stroganoff.

Ingredients

For this delightful Chicken Stroganoff recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (boneless and skinless (or breast cutlets/fillets))
• 1 tablespoon light olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 1 lb brown mushrooms (such as baby bella or chestnut mushrooms, sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock (plus more if needed)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard (or 2 teaspoons jarred Dijon mustard)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Chicken Stroganoff

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet.
2. Melt in 1 tablespoon of butter.
3. Add the chicken in a single layer; cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion; sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in sliced mushrooms; cook until they are tender, about 7 to 9 minutes. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Add chopped garlic and flour; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken stock along with Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, paprika, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir well to combine; allow to come to a boil until thickened.

Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream

1. In a small bowl, add a few spoonfuls of hot sauce to sour cream to warm it up without curdling.
2. Gradually pour this mixture into the skillet while stirring continuously.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Reduce heat to low; stir in sour cream and chopped parsley.
2. Return cooked chicken along with any juices back into the skillet; cook until warmed through.
3. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your creamy Chicken Stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice for an extra touch! Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Stroganoff

Chicken Stroganoff is a comfort food favorite that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious ways to serve this creamy dish and elevate your dining experience.

Over Egg Noodles

• Classic pairing: Serve the chicken stroganoff over tender egg noodles for a traditional touch that complements the creamy sauce.

With Rice

• Hearty option: A fluffy bed of white or brown rice soaks up the rich sauce, making for a satisfying meal.

Zucchini Noodles

• Low-carb alternative: For a healthier twist, serve your chicken stroganoff over sautéed zucchini noodles, offering a fresh taste.

Cauliflower Rice

• Keto-friendly choice: Cauliflower rice provides a light yet filling base that pairs well with the richness of the stroganoff.

Garnished with Fresh Parsley

• Colorful finish: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and added freshness to each serving.

With Crusty Bread

• Perfect for dipping: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall experience.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Chicken Stroganoff

To make your Chicken Stroganoff truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness; they hold up better in sauces compared to breasts.
• Sauté mushrooms properly: Ensure mushrooms are cooked until their moisture evaporates for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Tempering sour cream: Gradually mix hot sauce into sour cream before adding it to the skillet to prevent curdling.
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout cooking; add Worcestershire sauce or vinegar as needed for depth.
• Control sauce thickness: If your sauce thickens too much, add extra chicken stock gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to tweak spices like paprika or mustard according to your palate for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Stroganoff

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your Chicken Stroganoff meal. Here are some perfect accompaniments.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and balances the richness of the stroganoff.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is great for sopping up any remaining sauce on your plate.
3. Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonally roasted veggies provide earthy flavors that complement the savory notes of the stroganoff.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes work wonderfully as a base, soaking up all that delicious gravy.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness and is fun to enjoy alongside this hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Stroganoff can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can hinder your dish’s success. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. To avoid this, cook until just browned and no longer pink inside.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the chicken or mushrooms can lead to a lack of flavor. Always ensure you brown these ingredients well for depth in your sauce.
• Adding sour cream too quickly: If you add sour cream directly to the hot sauce, it may curdle. Temper it by mixing it with a bit of hot sauce first before adding it to the skillet.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting your seasoning is crucial. Always taste your sauce before serving to find the right balance of flavors.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Quality matters when it comes to ingredients like chicken and stock. Use fresh, high-quality items for the best results.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Stroganoff in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Stroganoff

• Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag.
• It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Stroganoff

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and reheat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated completely.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to loosen the sauce while stirring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Stroganoff?

Chicken Stroganoff is a creamy dish made with sautéed chicken and mushrooms served in a rich gravy, usually enjoyed over noodles or rice.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breast as a substitute for thighs; just be cautious not to overcook it.

How do I make Chicken Stroganoff gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour alternatives.

What should I serve with Chicken Stroganoff?

This dish pairs wonderfully with egg noodles, rice, or even vegetables like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Stroganoff is an incredibly comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it perfect for family meals or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or serve it over different bases. Try this easy recipe tonight; you won’t be disappointed!