Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting taste of Creamy Chicken Stroganoff on a chilly evening. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, silky noodles, and a creamy, savory sauce for a meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate.

I first discovered this recipe while trying to recreate my mom's classic stroganoff, swapping out beef for chicken for a lighter twist. It’s now a household favorite, especially on busy weeknights when we want something quick, satisfying, and delicious. Let’s dive in and see what makes this recipe so special.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food. This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

First, it’s quick and easy to prepare. The recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you’re short on time but still crave a home-cooked meal.

Another reason to adore this dish is its rich and creamy flavor. The combination of sautéed chicken, mushrooms, and a velvety sour cream sauce creates a taste that’s both indulgent and balanced.

It’s also a budget-friendly option. Using affordable, everyday ingredients means you can create a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank.

Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you pair it with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, it’s adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Plus, you can customize it with different vegetables or even swap the protein if needed.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Creamy Chicken Stroganoff lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even flavor distribution. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste.

Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are essential for that classic stroganoff flavor. White button or cremini mushrooms work beautifully, offering a subtle earthiness to balance the creamy sauce.

Sour Cream: This is what makes the sauce so creamy and tangy. Full-fat sour cream provides the best texture, but you can use reduced-fat for a lighter option. Be sure to stir it in off the heat to avoid curdling.

Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce while keeping it light. Use low-sodium broth if possible, so you can control the saltiness.

Paprika: A dash of paprika gives the dish a hint of smoky warmth, rounding out the flavors perfectly. Sweet paprika is traditional, but smoked paprika can add an extra layer of complexity.

For equipment, you’ll need a large skillet, a pot for boiling noodles, and basic kitchen tools like a knife and cutting board.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Making Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is easier than you might think. With just a few steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to enjoy.

Start by preparing your chicken. Cut the chicken breasts into evenly sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes, then set aside.

In the same skillet, melt a bit of butter and add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté until they’re tender and browned, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and stir in sour cream. Whisk until smooth, then season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch more paprika.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

While the sauce is simmering, cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and toss the noodles with a bit of butter to prevent sticking. Serve the chicken stroganoff over the noodles, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. The result is creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, Creamy Chicken Stroganoff stores beautifully. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

In the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stroganoff. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and again, add a bit of liquid to restore the creamy texture.

Avoid freezing the dish with noodles, as they can become mushy. Instead, freeze the sauce and chicken separately and cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Swap the chicken for beef or turkey for a different protein base. Ground meat also works well for a faster cooking option.

Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Stir them into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter sauce with a similar tangy flavor. Just be sure to add it off the heat to avoid curdling.

For a gluten-free version, serve the stroganoff over rice, mashed potatoes, or gluten-free pasta.

Experiment with spices like thyme, dill, or even a touch of nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.

This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff recipe is a versatile, comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of these variations, it’s bound to be a hit with everyone around the table!

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