If you’ve been searching for a comforting, creamy, and utterly satisfying dish that’s quick to whip up, this Chicken Stroganoff Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender pieces of chicken with earthy mushrooms and a luscious sour cream sauce, every bite bursts with rich flavors and a delightful texture. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without fussing too much. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Stroganoff Recipe, it will become a beloved part of your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect Chicken Stroganoff flavor and texture. From the juicy chicken breasts for protein, to the cremini mushrooms that bring earthiness, and the tang of Dijon mustard adding a little zing, every item shapes this dish into the creamy delight it is.
- Chicken breasts: Choose fresh, boneless pieces for tender, juicy meat that cooks evenly.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle depth and a gentle punch of flavor to the chicken.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance every ingredient’s natural taste.
- Flour (for dredging): Creates a light coating that crisps up the chicken and thickens the sauce.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Used for searing chicken and sautéing vegetables; gives a rich mouthfeel and caramelization.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect golden sear on mushrooms and onions.
- Cremini mushrooms (8 ounces): Provide an earthy, meaty flavor that pairs beautifully with sour cream.
- Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Brings a slightly sweet and savory base to the sauce.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Offers a tangy sharpness that cuts through the richness.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Enhances depth and umami, balancing the flavors.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Fresh garlic adds brightness and aromatic complexity.
- Chicken broth (2/3 cup): Forms the liquid base, adding moisture and subtle savory notes.
- Full fat sour cream (1/2 cup): Key for the creamy sauce texture and that classic Stroganoff tang.
How to Make Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Dredge the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces, which ensures quick, even cooking and bite-sized portions. Sprinkle the chicken generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper — this initial seasoning is vital for flavor penetrance. Then, dredge each piece in flour to create a light coating that will give the chicken a beautiful crust and naturally thicken the sauce later on.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat for that perfect sear. To avoid overcrowding the pan — which can cause the chicken to steam instead of brown — cook in two batches. Place the chicken pieces into the hot pan, cooking each side for about 3 minutes until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature reaching 165°F). For the second batch, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil as the pan will have dried out. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, allowing the flavors to set aside while you move on.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Onions
Add butter to the skillet and let it melt for a rich base, then toss in the cremini mushrooms and chopped onions. Sauté them for 6 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms release their water, which then cooks off, leaving a beautiful sear that brings out their savory, earthy goodness. The onions will soften and caramelize slightly, adding a hint of sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.
Step 4: Build the Sauce Base
Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic, cooking everything together for about a minute. This combination adds layers of tangy sharpness, umami richness, and aromatic depth that really make the sauce sing.
Step 5: Deglaze and Combine
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, making sure to scrape up those browned bits off the skillet bottom — that’s where much of the flavor lives! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and let everything mingle for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors and ensure it’s all heated through.
Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream
Finally, stir in the full-fat sour cream gently, allowing the sauce to become creamy and luscious. Heat for about a minute without letting it boil to prevent curdling, and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Your Chicken Stroganoff is now ready to serve, bubbling with irresistible aroma and rich, comforting flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Chicken Stroganoff Recipe with fresh garnishes that add color and freshness. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives brings a pop of green and a mild herbaceous bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A light drizzle of olive oil or a few cracked black pepper flakes can also enhance its appearance and flavor.
Side Dishes
The creamy nature of Chicken Stroganoff pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Traditional buttered egg noodles or fluffy mashed potatoes are classic choices, perfect for soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce. For a lighter route, steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad add much-needed freshness and crunch to the plate, balancing the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Chicken Stroganoff Recipe presentation a notch higher by serving it in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before eating. For an unexpected twist, try plating it atop roasted cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or use it as a hearty filling inside warm crepes for a fun and fancy dinner idea. The creamy, flavorful sauce allows for endless creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Stroganoff keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the texture intact.
Freezing
You can freeze Chicken Stroganoff, though it’s best to freeze it without noodles or sides to prevent sogginess. Place the cooled stroganoff in a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. It will maintain good quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the Chicken Stroganoff gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid curdling the sour cream sauce. If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Microwave reheating works too, but be sure to do it in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be a great alternative for a juicier, more flavorful stroganoff. Just adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a dairy-free option for the sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute full-fat sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream mixed with a little lemon juice or a plant-based sour cream. Just note the flavor will shift slightly but remain delicious.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry for dredging and thickening the sauce. Also, check Worcestershire sauce ingredients as some brands contain gluten.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard or a bit of whole grain mustard can work. You can also omit it, though it does add a nice tang, so consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness instead.
Can I prepare Chicken Stroganoff Recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sautéed vegetables ahead, and combine everything with sour cream sauce just before serving. This helps keep the sauce fresh and prevents curdling.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stroganoff Recipe is pure comfort food magic — quick, flavorful, and just downright delicious. The balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory mushrooms makes it a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and dive into this hearty dish that’s perfect any night of the week. You won’t regret giving it a try!
Print
Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Russian-American
Description
This Chicken Stroganoff recipe is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender pieces of chicken cooked with sautéed mushrooms and onions in a rich sour cream sauce, enhanced with Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a hearty weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1″ pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Flour, for dredging
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or more, to taste)
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup full fat sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces. Sprinkle them evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then dredge each piece in flour to coat thoroughly.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Working in two batches to avoid overcrowding, cook the chicken pieces about 3 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and lightly browned. Use tongs to flip the chicken. The second batch may cook faster; add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil as the pan may become dry. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate.
- Sauté mushrooms and onions: Add butter to the same pan and let it melt. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until the vegetables release their water, cook it off, and the mushrooms develop a nice sear.
- Add flavorings: Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Cook for about one minute to combine flavors.
- Deglaze and simmer: Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan bottom. Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan and cook together for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with sour cream: Stir in the sour cream and heat through gently for about a minute, ensuring it doesn’t boil to prevent curdling. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure even browning.
- Be careful not to let the sour cream bubble, as this can cause curdling.
- You can substitute cremini mushrooms with white button mushrooms if desired.
- Serve with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Use full fat sour cream for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
