Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy richness of chicken stroganoff to make dinner feel extra special. This quick, hearty dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sauce served over a bed of warm noodles or rice—comfort food at its finest.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I was craving something indulgent yet easy to whip up. Over the years, it has become a favorite for cozy family dinners, and I’m excited to share it with you today.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Get ready to meet your new weeknight favorite! This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff ticks all the boxes for a dish that's comforting, easy, and crowd-pleasing.

First and foremost, this recipe is incredibly quick to make. In under 30 minutes, you'll have a flavorful dinner on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The flavors are rich and satisfying, thanks to the creamy sauce made with tangy sour cream and a splash of chicken broth. Each bite feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

This dish is also wonderfully versatile. Whether you prefer serving it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, it adapts beautifully to your family's preferences.

Finally, the ingredient list is simple and affordable. You'll likely already have most of the staples in your pantry or fridge, so there's no need for a lengthy grocery run.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Stroganoff lies in the combination of simple ingredients that create complex, mouthwatering flavors.

Chicken: For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs stay tender and juicy during cooking, while breasts offer a leaner option. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are essential for their earthy flavor. Baby Bella or white button mushrooms work perfectly, but feel free to mix in others like shiitake for added depth.

Sour Cream: This is the key to the sauce’s tangy creaminess. For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt, but sour cream delivers the most authentic stroganoff flavor.

Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce while keeping it from becoming too heavy. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.

Paprika and Garlic: These spices elevate the dish, adding warmth and complexity to the creamy sauce. Smoked paprika can be used if you want a touch of smokiness.

You’ll also need basic pantry items like butter, flour, and olive oil to help create the roux and balance the flavors. A large skillet and a wooden spoon are the only special equipment you’ll need.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Making this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying. Let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious dish.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add your chicken pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same pan, melt a generous tablespoon of butter and toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them until golden brown and their moisture has cooked off, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning.

Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir well to create a roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. The mixture should thicken slightly into a smooth, creamy base.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream and paprika. Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce. Let the dish simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve your chicken stroganoff over a bed of warm egg noodles or fluffy white rice, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Dinner is served!

Storage Options

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff stores wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly as it cools, but you can loosen it with a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.

For freezing, let the stroganoff cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to avoid curdling the sour cream in the sauce. Stir occasionally and add liquid as needed to maintain the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable, so feel free to get creative with your stroganoff.

For a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or even chickpeas. You can also double the mushrooms for an ultra-savory, meat-free version.

If you're avoiding gluten, replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour. Serve over gluten-free pasta or rice for a fully gluten-free meal.

Add a touch of elegance by stirring in a splash of white wine with the chicken broth. The acidity enhances the dish’s overall flavor and pairs beautifully with the creaminess.

Want extra protein? Toss in cooked bacon pieces or sautéed ground turkey for a unique spin on this classic dish.

Experiment with seasonings like thyme or rosemary to add a hint of herbal freshness. A pinch of cayenne pepper also works wonders if you prefer a slight kick.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, so don’t be afraid to tailor it to your taste. Enjoy exploring the endless possibilities!

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