When the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, I find myself reaching for comfort food that warms more than just the belly — it comforts the soul. One dish that never fails to deliver is Chicken Stroganoff. This creamy, savory delight combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich sauce that begs to be soaked up with egg noodles or rice. It’s the kind of dish you can’t help but fall in love with, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a special family gathering, or just a quiet evening in front of the TV.
Why you’ll love this dish
Chicken Stroganoff is a hug in a bowl. It’s quick to make, which means you won’t spend your entire evening in the kitchen. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal that feels as luxurious as dining out. It’s also quite budget-friendly — perfect for families or anyone watching their expenses. Plus, the creamy sauce isn’t just about taste; it makes everything feel comforting in the most delicious way.
"I made this for dinner last night, and my kids could not get enough! They even asked for seconds. This dish is definitely a family favorite now!" — A happy home cook.
Preparing Chicken Stroganoff
Making Chicken Stroganoff is easier than you might think! The secret lies in the order you add your ingredients. You’ll start by sautéing onions and garlic to extract their glorious flavors before introducing the chicken. Then comes the mushrooms, followed by a sprinkling of flour to help thicken the sauce. Slowly, you’ll bring in the chicken broth, watching as it transforms from a simple stock into a luscious sauce. Finally, the magic happens with a swirl of sour cream, creating that signature rich finish.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to whip up your Chicken Stroganoff:
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Egg noodles or rice for serving
Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or even go meatless with mushrooms as the star. If sour cream isn’t on hand, a dollop of Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute.
Directions to follow
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they’re softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the sliced chicken, cooking until it’s browned on all sides, roughly 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the mushrooms, letting them release their juices and become tender, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over your chicken and mushroom mixture, stirring well to ensure it’s nicely coated.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously. This will help thicken your sauce—watch as it transforms over the next 3-5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and gently stir in the sour cream until it’s well combined and blissfully creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve this heavenly mixture over freshly cooked egg noodles or rice.
Best ways to enjoy it
Presentation matters, even when comfort food is on the menu! For a beautiful plate, serve the Chicken Stroganoff over a mound of soft egg noodles, letting that creamy sauce drape down like a warm blanket. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Pair this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, balancing the richness of the stroganoff with some crunch and color.
How to store & freeze
Leftovers can be a lifesaver for busy weekdays, and Chicken Stroganoff stores well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it for a later date, you can freeze it for up to two months. Just know that the sauce may separate a bit upon reheating, but a gentle stir and a splash of broth can bring it back to life!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tricks to elevate your Chicken Stroganoff:
- Sear the chicken on high heat to develop a lovely color and flavor before adding other ingredients.
- If you like a kick, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
- Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions and garlic to soften properly; it’s worth the wait.
Creative twists
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the chicken for sliced steak or even going vegetarian with more mushrooms and a variety of vegetables like bell peppers. For a healthy twist, replace traditional sour cream with a low-fat version or even cashew cream for a dairy-free option. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility — make it your own!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Chicken Stroganoff?
From start to finish, you should expect to spend about 30-40 minutes on this dish.
Can I use precooked chicken?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, precooked chicken can be added during the last few minutes of cooking just to heat through.
How do I know if I should freeze or refrigerate leftovers?
If you think you won’t finish the leftovers within three days, freezing is your best bet! Just remember to divide them into smaller portions for easy reheating.
What can I use if I don’t have sour cream?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute! You can also mix cream cheese with a little milk for a similar texture.
Cooking should always feel approachable and enjoyable. Pair this Chicken Stroganoff with a cozy evening, and let it warm not just your body but also the hearts of everyone who digs in. Enjoy every rich, creamy bite!
Chicken Stroganoff
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they're softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the sliced chicken, cooking until it's browned on all sides, roughly 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the mushrooms, letting them release their juices and become tender, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over your chicken and mushroom mixture, stirring well to ensure it's nicely coated.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Lower the heat and gently stir in the sour cream until it's well combined and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve this mixture over freshly cooked egg noodles or rice.