Name: Creamy Chicken Stroganoff: Comfort Food in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breasts (Cut into 1-inch pieces); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Can be replaced with fresh garlic); 1/4 cup Flour (Gluten-free flour works as a substitute); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can use any neutral oil); 2 tablespoons Butter (Can swap with extra olive oil for dairy-free); 8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms (Button mushrooms can be used if needed); 1 medium Onion (Any onion variety is fine); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Adjust to your liking); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Use to taste, or omit); 3 cloves Garlic (fresh) (Minced); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Opt for low-sodium if preferred); 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt serves as a lighter substitute)

As I stirred the simmering pot, the warm, inviting aroma of Creamy Chicken Stroganoff filled my kitchen, wrapping around me like a comforting hug. This delightful one-pan dish marries tender pieces of chicken with earthy mushrooms and a luscious sour cream sauce that elevates everyday dinners into something special. In just 30 minutes, you can bring this quick meal to your table, making it the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when comfort food is a must. It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even fluffy mashed potatoes, ensuring your family will be asking for seconds. Curious to discover how to craft this cozy masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Is Chicken Stroganoff So Good?

Quick and Easy: This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the ultimate weeknight savior.

One-Pan Wonder: Simplify your cooking and cleanup with this delicious dish that’s made all in one pan.

Irresistible Comfort: The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and earthy mushrooms, creating a warm, hug-like experience that feels like home.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or fluffy mashed potatoes for a customizable meal that suits any palate. For a lighter twist, consider serving over spiralized vegetables!

Crowd-Pleaser: Delight your family or guests with a dish that is both sophisticated and comforting. They’ll be coming back for more, just like with my other favorites: Buffalo Chicken Tacos or Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad.

Flexible Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients based on preference—try coconut cream for a dairy-free option or substitute chicken with beef for a classic variation.

Chicken Stroganoff Ingredients

• Dive into this comforting dish with all the essentials you need for a spectacular Chicken Stroganoff!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Cut into 1-inch pieces for quick cooking.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for bringing out the flavors; adjust according to your taste.
Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; can be replaced with fresh garlic for a stronger kick.
Flour – Dredging helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Used for searing the chicken; enhances flavor, but you can use any neutral oil.
Butter – Brings richness to the sauce; swap with extra olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
Cremini Mushrooms – Provides umami flavor; button mushrooms can be used if creminis aren’t available.
Onion – Adds sweetness to the dish; any onion variety is fine; avoid strong types if you’re sensitive.
Dijon Mustard – Introduces tanginess; adjust to your liking or replace with yellow mustard for milder taste.
Worcestershire Sauce – Elevates the umami; use to taste, or omit for a less intense flavor.
Garlic (fresh) – For aromatic freshness; three cloves minced will do the trick.
Chicken Broth – Keeps the sauce moist and flavorful; opt for low-sodium if preferred.
Sour Cream – Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt serves as a lighter substitute.

This summery dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but an experience of home cooked comfort. Enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and patting them dry with paper towels. Season generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, ensuring they are evenly coated for a nice golden sear. This preparation sets the foundation for a flavorful Chicken Stroganoff.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Sear each piece for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, letting the pan keep the delicious browned bits.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in cremini mushrooms and diced onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden and the onions are soft and translucent. The aromas will fill your kitchen, making this Chicken Stroganoff even more enticing.

Step 4: Build the Sauce
Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld together. Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze any flavorful bits, adding depth to your creamy sauce.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Base
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s well mixed. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes, which will warm the chicken and let the flavors marry into a creamy goodness, the hallmark of a perfect Chicken Stroganoff.

Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in 1 cup of sour cream, being careful to avoid boiling. Heat until just warmed through and the sauce is creamy but never bubbling. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for a finishing touch. Now your Chicken Stroganoff is ready to be served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prep the chicken and sauce components up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, season and dredge the chicken in flour, then refrigerate it separately. Sauté the veggies and build the sauce, allowing it to cool before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently over low heat, return the chicken to the skillet, and stir in the sour cream just before serving for the best texture. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a comforting, delicious meal with minimal effort on those hectic weeknights!

Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is cut uniformly into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. This helps achieve the ideal tenderness throughout the dish.
Avoid Curdling: When stirring in the sour cream, keep the heat low. Boiling can cause it to curdle, ruining the creamy texture of your Chicken Stroganoff.
Enhance Flavor Depth: Don’t skip the deglazing step! Scrape up the browned bits from the skillet after searing the chicken to add a rich flavor base to your sauce.
Season Smartly: Taste your sauce after adding the chicken broth and sour cream. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking—remember, seasoning can transform your Chicken Stroganoff from good to great!
Batch Cooking: To save time, consider prepping the chicken and sauce ahead of time. This dish is quick to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Transform your Chicken Stroganoff into a heartwarming meal with these delightful pairings that enhance its creamy goodness.

Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes makes them a perfect sponge for the creamy sauce, creating a comforting combination the whole family will love.
Egg Noodles: Soft, tender egg noodles are the classic accompaniment for Chicken Stroganoff, soaking up the sauce while adding a delightful texture contrast.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a wonderful contrast to the creamy stroganoff. Every bite brings a burst of flavor, making it a delightful option for dipping into the sauce.
Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a fresh, vibrant touch to the plate, balancing the dish’s richness while bringing a burst of color.
Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with a sprinkle of garlic provides a nutritious and delicious side that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Crisp Salad: A light mixed green salad, drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette, refreshes the palate between bites of rich stroganoff, creating the ideal contrast.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully, as its acidity cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Warm Apple Crisp: Finish the meal with a cozy dessert like warm apple crisp. The sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples are the perfect sweet ending to a comforting dinner.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Stroganoff

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Stroganoff in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Stroganoff without sour cream for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then stir in sour cream after reheating for the best texture.

Reheating: Always reheat gently to avoid curdling the sour cream. Aim for low heat on the stove or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Chicken Stroganoff Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this Chicken Stroganoff your own with these delightful twists and smart ingredient swaps!

Beef Option: Substitute chicken for beef strips to craft a traditional beef stroganoff that’s equally comforting.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for dusting the chicken to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap sour cream for coconut cream for a vibrant, dairy-free twist that still delivers creaminess. Consider adding a splash of lime juice for brightness!
Herb Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley during the last minutes of cooking to bring freshness and aromatic depth to your sauce.
Veggie Lover’s Choice: Add assorted vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to the sauté to boost nutrition and flavor. They complement the earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully!
Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes, or drizzle with hot sauce just before serving to ignite flavor in every bite.
Sauce Variations: Experiment with the sauce by incorporating a splash of white wine before adding the chicken broth to enhance richness! Alternatively, swapping in a bit of creamy cheese can elevate flavors further.
Alternative Starches: Replace traditional pasta or rice with spiralized vegetables, like zucchini or carrots, making for a lighter, yet satisfying meal. For those guilty indulgences, serve over buttery egg noodles!

No matter how you decide to personalize it, this Chicken Stroganoff is sure to please and warm the heart. If you’re in the mood to celebrate different flavors, consider trying my Buffalo Chicken Tacos or enjoy a light meal option like the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad!

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for Chicken Stroganoff?
Absolutely, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for Chicken Stroganoff as they cook quickly and stay tender. Be sure to cut them into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. If you’re feeling adventurous or want a richer flavor, chicken thighs can also work beautifully!

How should I store leftover Chicken Stroganoff?
To store your Chicken Stroganoff, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling the sauce. I often use a little splash of broth to help loosen the sauce as it warms up.

Can I freeze Chicken Stroganoff?
Yes! To freeze Chicken Stroganoff, omit the sour cream before freezing and let it cool completely. Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers and it can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, reheat on the stove, and stir in the sour cream for the best texture!

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your Chicken Stroganoff sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Gradually stir in a bit of chicken broth or even some white wine while heating. Start with about a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Always taste and adjust with more seasoning if needed—this is key!

Are there any dietary concerns I should consider?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, it’s great to know that this Chicken Stroganoff can work for various needs! For those who are lactose intolerant, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or coconut cream. Ensure to check that all other condiments, like Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free if needed!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Cooking chicken perfectly ensures it stays juicy! If you have a meat thermometer, check for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into a piece of chicken and ensure it’s no longer pink and the juices run clear. Remember, it’s better to take it off the heat slightly earlier than later!