Name: Creamy Chicken Stroganoff in Just 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast Halves (Substitute with chicken thighs for juicier bite.); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Add more if needed for second batch.); 1 tablespoon Butter (Essential for sautéing mushrooms.); 8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms (Swap with button mushrooms if necessary.); 1 Onion (Chopped.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Use fresh cloves for bolder flavor.); 2 tablespoons Flour (Key for thickening the sauce.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Adjust based on taste.); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Can substitute with soy sauce.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Opt for low-sodium if desired.); 1 cup Full-Fat Sour Cream (Lower-fat option may alter texture.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéing onions and earthy mushrooms wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to comfort food heaven. This Quick & Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is my go-to recipe for those busy weeknights when I crave something satisfying yet simple. With tender chicken bathed in a rich, velvety sauce, it not only delights the taste buds but also wraps you in a warm culinary embrace. Plus, the beauty of this one-pan wonder is that it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for anyone looking to swap fast food for a homemade indulgence. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this comforting classic? Let’s dive in!

Why is Chicken Stroganoff a Must-Try?

Comforting, Homemade Goodness: This dish brings a warmth and familiarity that only homemade meals can provide, ensuring satisfaction in every bite.

Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits seamlessly into your busy schedule, making it an ideal choice for weeknights.

One-Pan Solution: Minimize cleanup and maximize flavor by cooking everything in one pan, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.

Versatile Base: Enjoy the rich sauce over egg noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes, catering to your preferences or any pantry staples you have!

Crowd-Pleaser: This Chicken Stroganoff is sure to please everyone at the table, making it a perfect recipe for family dinners or casual gatherings.

In the mood for more comforting dishes? Don’t miss out on my Chicken Noodle Soup for a cozy classic or Honey Garlic Chicken for a sweet and savory twist!

Chicken Stroganoff Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken Breast Halves – This tender protein is the star of your Chicken Stroganoff; feel free to substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to your taste preference.

For the Sauté

Olive Oil – Perfect for cooking the chicken; add a splash more if needed for the second batch.
Butter – Adds richness and is essential for sautéing mushrooms to golden perfection.
Cremini Mushrooms – Bring a lovely umami flavor; swap with button mushrooms if you can’t find them.
Onion – Offers a natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Minced Garlic – For that extra kick of savory goodness! Use fresh cloves if you prefer a bolder garlic flavor.

For the Sauce

Flour – Key for thickening the sauce and creating a nice crust on the chicken.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy zing; adjust the amount based on your taste.
Worcestershire Sauce – Elevates the complexity of the dish; substitute with soy sauce if necessary.
Chicken Broth – The flavorful base for your sauce; opting for low-sodium can help control salt levels.
Full-Fat Sour Cream – This ingredient ensures your sauce is luxuriously creamy; you can use low-fat for lighter options, but it may alter the texture.

Get ready to enjoy this flavorful Chicken Stroganoff that comes together quickly and easily, right in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Stroganoff

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast halves into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring an even coating. Next, sprinkle just enough flour to lightly coat each piece, which will help create a delicious crust and thicken the sauce later. Set aside while you heat the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add half of the floured chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear them for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining chicken, adding more oil if necessary.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Once the butter melts, add sliced cremini mushrooms and chopped onions. Sauté for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and onions are translucent. This will bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the flavors of your Chicken Stroganoff.

Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This step adds depth to your creamy sauce. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they are packed with flavor and will enhance the overall taste of the Chicken Stroganoff.

Step 5: Add Chicken Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to combine with the vegetables. Return the golden chicken pieces to the skillet, allowing everything to come together. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, so the flavors meld together, creating a rich and savory sauce for your Chicken Stroganoff.

Step 6: Finish with Creaminess
Lower the heat and gently stir in the full-fat sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to boil the mixture at this stage to prevent curdling. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving your luxurious Chicken Stroganoff.

Chicken Stroganoff Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delicious adjustments to make your Chicken Stroganoff truly unique and just the way you like it!

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breast for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful bite that melts in your mouth.
Mushroom Medley: Use shiitake, portobello, or even a mix of wild mushrooms for an earthy twist that’ll elevate your dish to new heights.
Herbed Up: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end to brighten the flavors and bring a pop of freshness to each bite.
Dairy-Free: Replace sour cream with coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt to keep it creamy while catering to dairy-free needs.
Spicy Kick: Stir in some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for those who crave a little heat in their comfort food.
Pasta Alternative: Experiment by serving your stroganoff over polenta or quinoa instead of traditional noodles; enjoy a delightful change of texture!
Veggie-Loaded: Toss in baby spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of color, flavor, and nutrition!
Savoury Garnish: Top your stroganoff with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of grated cheese for a crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce.

For more comforting dishes to pair with your indulgent Chicken Stroganoff, try out my rich Fiery Chicken Ramen for a spice twist, or enjoy a hearty bowl of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf for something equally satisfying!

Storage Tips for Chicken Stroganoff

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Stroganoff in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you wish to save it for later, freeze Chicken Stroganoff for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to combine the sauce, which may separate during storage. Avoid boiling to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Thawing: For best results, thaw frozen Chicken Stroganoff overnight in the fridge before reheating. This helps maintain texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Rich Chicken Stroganoff ahead of time is a fantastic way to simplify dinner on busy nights! You can chop the chicken, season it, and even coat it in flour up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The mushrooms and onions can also be sautéed and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring maximum flavor. When you’re ready to serve, heat a bit of olive oil in your skillet, add the prepped chicken and sauté until golden brown, then incorporate your pre-cooked vegetables, chicken broth, and sour cream as detailed in the recipe. This will save you time without compromising on quality, delivering comforting, homemade goodness to your table in no time!

What to Serve with Quick & Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

As you indulge in the rich, savory flavors of this creamy delight, let’s complete your meal with a few mouthwatering pairings.

Egg Noodles: The classic partner for Stroganoff, their chewy texture absorbs the rich sauce beautifully, making each bite a warm embrace.
Steamed Green Beans: Fresh and vibrant, these add a crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce while providing a pop of color on your plate.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up extra sauce, a crusty loaf not only fetches those last bites but enhances the whole dining experience.
Mixed Salad: A light salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness and balances the richness of the Chicken Stroganoff wonderfully.
Potato Mash: Silky smooth mashed potatoes complement the dish’s flavors, delivering comfort in every spoonful while enriching each bite.
White Wine: A chilled glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors, making your meal feel elegant and special.
Dessert: Cap off your dinner with a warm chocolate lava cake or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory meal.
Roasted Asparagus: This roasted veggie adds an earthy flavor and tender crunch, making it a nutritious and delicious side.
Savory Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are an enticing way to enjoy the creamy sauce and add a delightful texture to your meal.
Herbed Rice: Infused with fresh herbs, this fragrant rice acts as the perfect complement to soak up all the goodness of your Chicken Stroganoff sauce.

Expert Tips for Chicken Stroganoff

Sour Cream Safety: Always remove the pan from heat before adding sour cream to avoid curdling, ensuring a smooth, creamy sauce.
Even Cooking: Cut chicken into uniform pieces for consistent cooking; if they’re uneven, pounding them to an even thickness works wonders.
Perfect Mushrooms: Cook mushrooms until golden brown rather than steaming them; this enhances their flavor, giving your Chicken Stroganoff that rich tonality.
Season Wisely: Adjust salt and pepper to taste; under-seasoning can lead to a bland dish, while over-seasoning can overwhelm the delicate flavors.
Ingredient Substitution: Feel free to experiment with different mushrooms or chicken options; flexibility can open the door to delicious variations of chicken stroganoff.

Chicken Stroganoff Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for my Stroganoff?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, look for fresh, high-quality chicken breast halves. Ideally, they should be plump, with a pinkish hue and no dark spots. If you prefer a more tender texture, opting for chicken thighs is a lovely alternative. These are often juicier and offer great flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Stroganoff?
To keep your Chicken Stroganoff fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation. This way, you can enjoy those delicious comfort food leftovers!

Can I freeze Chicken Stroganoff?
Very! If you want to save your Chicken Stroganoff for later, freeze it for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
No worries! If your Stroganoff sauce turns out too thin, simply create a slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then gradually stir it into the sauce while it’s cooking over low heat. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help achieve that rich, velvety texture you desire!

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Stroganoff?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, there are a few things to note. For gluten-free options, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for thickening, and ensure your broth is gluten-free as well. If you have dairy allergies, try using a dairy-free sour cream alternative to maintain the creaminess without compromising your health needs.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Very much so! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable sauté in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply combine everything in the pan and add the remaining broth and sour cream. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without sacrificing quality, making meal prep a breeze!