Chicken Stroganoff

Name: Chicken Stroganoff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, sliced (Tender meat is key.); 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (Cremini preferred for rich earthiness.); 1 medium onion, chopped (Adds depth to the sauce.); 2 cloves garlic, minced (Because garlic makes everything better!); 1 cup sour cream (Turns a good sauce into a creamy dream.); 2 cups chicken broth (Use low-sodium broth to balance flavors.); 2 tbsp olive oil (For sautéing; any neutral oil works too.); to taste none salt and pepper (Season generously.); as needed none egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice for serving (It's your call!)

Posted on October 11, 2025

Delicious Chicken Stroganoff served with noodles on a plate

Chicken Recipes

High-calorie fast food meal consisting of burger, fries, soda, and a sad face emoticon.

Easy, Delicious Chicken Stroganoff for Cozy Nights

There’s something about a plate of Chicken Stroganoff that feels like a warm, comforting hug from a loved one, don’t you think? I first discovered this dish when I was a few years into my culinary adventures—an exciting time full of chaotic messes, culinary experiments, and, let’s be honest, a sprinkling of kitchen disasters. The first time I attempted to make this dish, I ended up with a straggly, overcooked chicken mush swimming in sour cream. I thought to myself, how could a meal so simple go so horribly awry? Spoiler alert: it was my fault, and a lesson learned.

Fast forward to today, and Chicken Stroganoff has morphed into one of my all-time favorite easy weeknight dinners. The smooth, creamy sauce, the tender chicken, and the earthy mushrooms all combine into a dish that feels indulgent yet is practically a breeze to make. It’s almost like magic in the kitchen, and it always comes through on days when I need some comfort food after too many Zoom calls or the chaos of daily life.

Imagine this: pot simmering on the stove, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafting through the air, while a flickering candle casts a warm glow throughout the kitchen. It’s the perfect setting for a cozy cooking night, whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a small army. Honestly, the very thought of Chicken Stroganoff takes me back to those chilly autumn evenings when all I wanted was a bowl of something hearty to wrap my hands around.

This dish is comforting, reliable, and utterly delicious, not to mention it fits perfectly into my quest for healthy comfort food. Keep reading, and I’ll share how you can whip it up, no sweat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those quick family meals when you just don’t have the time.
Leftover goldmine: It tastes even better the next day, which is a major win in my book! Hello, meal prep success!
Picky-eater approved: The creamy sauce and chicken combo win over even the fussiest of eaters. You won’t hear any complaints here!
Comfort food vibes: Think feels like a hug in a bowl kind of vibes.
Budget-friendly: Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish can serve as your go-to budget-friendly recipe that won’t break the bank.
Versatility: Serve it over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, or even get creative and use zucchini noodles for a lighter twist!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Chicken Stroganoff is special to me because it’s a culinary lifesaver. In a world of complex flavors and high-end cuisine, this dish brings you back to basics. The harmony of sautéed onions, garlic, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms mingling in a creamy sauce is a spectacular reminder that real comfort can come from simple pleasures.

One little cooking trick to note: don’t skimp on the sautéing. The caramelization that happens when you brown your onions and garlic is what builds that deep flavor base. Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can sneak in a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Just a hint will elevate it even more without overpowering the classic flavors.

Ingredients

Now let’s talk about what you need for this cozy masterpiece. Here’s a simple rundown of the essentials:

1 lb chicken breast, sliced: Tender meat is key here.
1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Use your favorite variety. I prefer cremini for their rich earthiness.
1 onion, chopped: Adds depth to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better!
1 cup sour cream: This is what turns a good sauce into a creamy dream.
2 cups chicken broth: The backbone of the dish; always go for low-sodium broth to balance flavors.
2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing, of course. Any neutral oil works if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to taste: Season, season, season!
Egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice for serving: It’s your call!

Personal Tip: I personally love using wide egg noodles because they soak up the sauce beautifully. But if I’m feeling extra lazy, I go for rice—easy peasy!

Now, let’s steer clear of a common rookie mistake: don’t overcrowd your pan when cooking the chicken; otherwise, you’ll end up with steamed chicken instead of that lovely brown crust. You want that gorgeous golden color, so work in batches if necessary.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of cooking this wonderful Chicken Stroganoff. Grab your apron, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s get cooking!

Heat the olive oil: Begin by pouring a couple tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet or pan and heat it over medium heat. You want to feel that gentle sizzle as the oil warms up.
Sauté the onions and garlic: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally. Let them soften for about 3–5 minutes—this is where the magic starts. The chic aroma wafts through your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly.
Add the chicken: Now, add your sliced chicken breast into the pan. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Cook it until it gets a nice golden-brown exterior. About 5–7 minutes should do. Flip the pieces often to ensure even cooking, and please, don’t forget to take a moment and smell that deliciousness!
In with the mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re tender. This will take about 5 minutes. The mushrooms absorb the flavors while adding their earthy essence to the dish. It’s such a comforting moment to see all those colors coming together; cue heart eyes.
Simmer it down: Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it!
Stir in the sour cream: Reduce the heat to low, and stir in your beloved sour cream until fully incorporated. Be gentle; we want a smooth, luscious sauce that lovingly coats the chicken and mushrooms.
Season further if needed: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper. If you want to add a little tang to the mix, now’s the time to experiment with just a splash of lemon juice.
Serve up happiness: It’s finally time to serve this cozy dish! You can spoon the Chicken Stroganoff over egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fluffy bed of rice. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here; whatever your heart desires!

As you plate it up, take a moment to admire your creation. I mean, look at that cream sauce glistening! Seriously, it’s almost too pretty to eat (but who am I kidding?).

Tips for Best Results

Don’t rush the sautéing: Give your onions and garlic time to become fragrant, and delightfully golden.
Don’t overcrowd your pan: I can’t stress this enough! Cook chicken in batches if you need to; it’ll retain its juiciness better.
Use low-sodium broth: This way, you control the salt levels better, preserving the dish’s balance.
Get creative with pasta: Have leftover quinoa? It makes a great base too!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

While I love this classic Chicken Stroganoff, you can definitely play around with it!

Protein swaps: Swap chicken for turkey if you’re in the mood for a different flavor. Or try using portobello mushrooms for a veggie version.
Dairy alternatives: For a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or a non-dairy sour cream.
Seasonal twists: If you have fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on hand, toss them in at the end for an interesting flavor up!

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Stroganoff shines in all its creamy glory, but let’s make it a complete meal!

Pair it with some fresh greens. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette would provide a perfect contrast to the richness of the dish.

Wine lovers, now’s your moment! A chilled glass of white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the creamy sauce beautifully. Or, if you’re in a cozy mood, a hearty red works too!

For dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a heavenly way to wrap up your meal. You know what they say: ice cream fixes everything!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If, by some miracle, you end up with leftovers (though I doubt it), here’s the scoop: allow the Chicken Stroganoff to cool completely before transferring into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend a low-and-slow approach. You can pop it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to help revive the creamy texture. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, a microwave works too—just cover it to avoid that dried-out mess.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Want to prep in advance? This dish holds up surprisingly well for meal prep! You can easily make the entire dish ahead of time, then simply reheat when ready to serve. As for freezing, I’d recommend freezing it BEFORE adding the sour cream. You can then defrost overnight and stir in the sour cream once heated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken: You want juicy tender bites, not dry shreds. Keep an eye on it!
Skipping the simmering: Letting those flavors marry in the broth is the key to a rich sauce.
Forgetting to taste: Always taste and adjust your seasonings before serving. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but I highly recommend thawing it first to ensure even cooking.

What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt works great for a tangy touch—just be sure to add it slowly so it doesn’t curdle.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze it before adding the sour cream.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

For this Chicken Stroganoff, you’ll need:

A large skillet or pan
A cutting board for chopping
A sharp knife (because chicken doesn’t cut itself!)
Measuring cups and spoons
And a cozy serving dish to present your delicious creation!

Final Thoughts

As I finish typing this up, I’m dreaming about that first bite of Chicken Stroganoff—the comforting creaminess enveloping chicken and mushrooms, the memories attached to each spoonful. Cooking for me is not just about eating; it’s about love, stories, and beautiful moments shared over great food.

I encourage you to try this recipe, maybe with a loved one by your side! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend. Now go on—get cookin’!