If you are searching for a rich, comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce, this Chicken Stroganoff Recipe is exactly what you need. With juicy chicken thighs enveloped in a creamy, mushroom-studded sauce, every bite feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe balances savory flavors and a velvety texture that makes it perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests without complicated cooking techniques.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Chicken Stroganoff Recipe is easiest when you have simple, fresh ingredients on hand. Each element plays a crucial role, from the savory chicken thighs to the earthy mushrooms and tangy sour cream that give the dish its signature creamy texture and deep flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, adding a subtle fruity depth.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Needed to sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms, building flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch when cooked down.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Offers an aromatic punch that complements the mushrooms beautifully.
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced: The star ingredient in the sauce, bringing earthy tones and meaty texture.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a herbaceous lift that brightens the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and subtle smokiness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: To season the vegetables and sauce layers perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami depth for rich complexity.
- ¼ cup dry white wine: Deglazes the pan while adding acidity and nuanced flavor.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- ¾ cup sour cream: This creamy element brings tanginess and smoothness that ties the dish together.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Forms the base liquid that enriches the sauce without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh herb garnish that adds color and a bright finish.
How to Make Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thigh pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This step locks in the juiciness and ensures the chicken pieces stay tender in the creamy sauce. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you prepare the flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining olive oil to retain all the flavorful browned bits from cooking the chicken. Cook the chopped onion until it softens and becomes translucent, then add the minced garlic, allowing it to release its fragrant aroma. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms, cooking them down until they develop a deep brown color and their moisture evaporates. This concentrated mushroom flavor is the heart of the stroganoff. Season everything with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper to build layers of taste.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Now it’s time to deglaze the pan with Worcestershire sauce and dry white wine, scraping the bottom to lift those tasty browned bits. Simmer for a few minutes until the liquid slightly reduces. Stir in the flour and cook it through for about a minute, which will help thicken the sauce beautifully. Then, slowly pour in the chicken broth and continue stirring as the sauce simmers, thickening to a rich consistency that will coat every piece of chicken perfectly.
Step 4: Finish with Sour Cream and Chicken
Reduce the heat to low before gently stirring in the sour cream. This step is key to achieving the creamy, tangy lusciousness that makes this Chicken Stroganoff Recipe so irresistible. Allow the sauce to warm through until it becomes silky smooth without boiling, which would cause the sour cream to curdle. Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to heat evenly and absorb all the flavors before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top just before serving to add a splash of vibrant color and a burst of fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Stroganoff Recipe pairs wonderfully with a bed of warm egg noodles, fluffy mashed potatoes, or even steamed rice to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce. For a lighter touch, try serving alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stroganoff in individual ramekins over a nest of noodles or mashed potatoes, garnished with extra parsley and a light dusting of paprika. You could also stuff puff pastry shells with the stroganoff for a more elegant presentation that will surely wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Chicken Stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect choice for quick weekday meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although the texture of the sour cream sauce may slightly change. Store the stroganoff in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the stroganoff over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of broth or water can help restore creaminess if it thickens too much during cooling.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and more forgiving during cooking, boneless skinless chicken breast can be used. Just be sure to not overcook it to keep it tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or a cashew cream, although the flavor and texture might be slightly different from the classic.
What can I use instead of white wine for deglazing?
A dry white wine adds acidity and complexity, but you can replace it with extra chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a similar effect.
Can I prepare Chicken Stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook everything except the sour cream part and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the dish gently and stir in the sour cream at the end for best texture.
What is the best way to thicken the sauce?
The flour used in the recipe naturally thickens the sauce. Ensuring you cook the flour a little before adding broth will help avoid any raw taste and create a smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stroganoff Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for its perfect blend of ease, comfort, and incredible flavor. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a timeless classic that feels both homey and special. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and whip up this creamy, delicious meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner routine!
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Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Russian-inspired
Description
This Chicken Stroganoff recipe is a creamy and comforting dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich mushroom sauce flavored with paprika, Italian seasoning, and sour cream. It’s a delicious twist on the classic stroganoff, perfect for a family dinner with its savory sauce and tender chicken pieces.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Stroganoff Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 2 cups low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken thighs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully cooked through and browned on the outside, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned and their moisture has evaporated, approximately 6-8 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Deglaze and Thicken Sauce: Pour in Worcestershire sauce and dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Then gradually add the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce and Combine: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat the pieces with the sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes but do not boil to prevent sour cream from curdling. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat and better flavor.
- If you prefer, you can substitute dry white wine with more chicken broth or apple cider vinegar.
- Sour cream should be added off the heat or on low to prevent curdling.
- This dish pairs well with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop.
