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What Is Chicken Stroganoff?
Chicken stroganoff is a variation of the traditional beef stroganoff, which originated in Russia in the 19th century. Instead of beef, tender chicken pieces are simmered in a savory mushroom and onion sauce, finished with sour cream to create a creamy, flavorful dish. It’s typically served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.
The simplicity of chicken stroganoff makes it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time but still want a dish that feels indulgent. Its rich, savory flavors combined with the creaminess of sour cream make it a comforting classic that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.
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Ingredients Needed for a Simple Chicken Stroganoff
To prepare a delicious and easy chicken stroganoff, gather the following ingredients:
Protein
- 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for color and flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
Finishing Touches
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To Serve
- Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Simple Chicken Stroganoff
Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful chicken stroganoff that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the mushrooms and finely chop the onion and garlic.
- Measure out your liquids and seasonings.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil or butter if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Sauce
- Sprinkle the paprika over the vegetables and stir to coat.
- Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
5. Combine Chicken and Finish the Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through, but avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve
- Serve the chicken stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
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Tips for Making the Best Simple Chicken Stroganoff
To ensure your chicken stroganoff turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
Use the Right Cut of Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, but thighs will add extra tenderness and flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
- Cook chicken just until browned and cooked through to keep it tender and prevent dryness.
Choose Quality Mushrooms
- Fresh mushrooms enhance flavor, but you can also use canned mushrooms for convenience.
Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
Substitute Sour Cream with Alternatives
- Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as healthier or dairy-free options, but adjust the quantity and add gradually.
Customize with Additional Flavors
- Add a splash of white wine or a dash of Dijon mustard for extra depth.
- Incorporate vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
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Variations and Customizations
The simple chicken stroganoff recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some ideas to personalize your dish:
Vegetarian Version
- Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.
Low-Carb Option
- Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables instead of pasta or grains.
Spicy Kick
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to spice things up.
Make It Dairy-Free
- Use coconut milk or dairy-free sour cream alternatives.
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Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Chicken stroganoff pairs beautifully with various side dishes:
- Egg noodles, for a traditional touch
- Steamed rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option
- Mashed potatoes for added comfort
- Crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the sauce
For beverages, consider serving with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the rich flavors.
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Final Thoughts
Making a simple chicken stroganoff recipe at home is a rewarding experience that yields a comforting and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Its straightforward ingredients and easy steps make it accessible to cooks of all levels. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. With this guide, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious, creamy chicken stroganoff that will become a regular staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy cooking and, most importantly, enjoy your flavorful homemade meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need for a simple chicken stroganoff recipe?
You'll need chicken breasts or thighs, mushrooms, onion, garlic, sour cream, beef or chicken broth, flour, butter or oil, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include paprika and parsley for added flavor.
How long does it take to prepare and cook chicken stroganoff?
The entire process usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes—10 minutes for preparation and 20 to 30 minutes for cooking.
Can I make chicken stroganoff healthier?
Yes, you can use low-fat sour cream, lean chicken cuts, and serve it over whole grain pasta or rice to make the dish healthier. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach also boosts nutrition.
Is it possible to make chicken stroganoff vegetarian?
While traditional chicken stroganoff contains meat, you can substitute chicken with mushrooms or plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
What are some tips for making a creamy and flavorful chicken stroganoff?
Use full-fat sour cream for creaminess, cook the mushrooms and onions until golden to develop flavor, and season well with salt, pepper, and paprika. Deglazing the pan with broth also enhances depth of flavor.
