Easy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

If you’ve been craving a hearty, comforting dinner that’s easy to make yet bursting with flavor, Easy Chicken Stroganoff should be at the top of your list. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a creamy mushroom sauce, perfectly balanced with a hint of paprika and garlic. Served over buttery egg noodles or fluffy rice, it’s a recipe that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special.

In this complete guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know — from the dish’s background and ingredient breakdown to expert tips, serving ideas, and storage methods. By the end, you’ll not only know how to make Easy Chicken Stroganoff like a pro, but you’ll also have a few creative twists to keep the recipe exciting every time you make it.

A Brief History of Stroganoff

Before diving into the chicken version, let’s take a quick peek into the origins of stroganoff. Traditionally, stroganoff is a Russian dish made with sautéed pieces of beef served in a sauce with sour cream. It’s believed to have been named after the Stroganov family, wealthy merchants and landowners in 19th-century Russia.

Over time, this luxurious beef dish traveled the globe, evolving to fit local tastes and ingredient availability. In the United States, stroganoff became popular in the mid-20th century, especially during the post-war era when canned soups and convenience cooking were on the rise. This paved the way for Easy Chicken Stroganoff, which swaps out beef for chicken — a more affordable, leaner protein — without sacrificing the dish’s signature creamy, savory character.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Stroganoff

There’s a reason Easy Chicken Stroganoff is a beloved weeknight meal for so many families:

• Quick to prepare – You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.
• One-pan wonder – Less mess, fewer dishes.
• Family-friendly – Mild, creamy flavors that appeal to both adults and kids.
• Customizable – Adjust spices, swap noodles for rice, or add vegetables.
• Budget-friendly – Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or want something cozy for the weekend, this recipe hits the mark.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Stroganoff

Let’s break down each ingredient so you know exactly why it’s here and how it contributes to the overall flavor:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  Lean and tender, chicken breasts cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  Adds richness and helps create a golden sear on the chicken.
• 1 small onion, diced
  Sweet and aromatic, onion forms the flavor base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  Garlic enhances the savory notes of the sauce.
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  Mushrooms bring earthiness and absorb the sauce beautifully.
• 1 tsp paprika
  Adds a subtle smokiness and warmth.
• 1 cup chicken broth
  Provides depth of flavor and forms the liquid base for the sauce.
• 1 cup sour cream
  The heart of the stroganoff sauce — creamy, tangy, and luxurious.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  Helps thicken the sauce to a silky consistency.
• Salt & pepper, to taste
  Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and freshness.
• Cooked egg noodles or rice, for serving
  The perfect base to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these directions closely for the best Easy Chicken Stroganoff:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5–6 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onion and mushrooms. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and the mushrooms have released their moisture.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring well to coat them. This step helps thicken the sauce later.

Step 5: Add the Broth

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly. Continue to cook until the sauce starts to thicken.

Step 6: Stir in the Sour Cream

Lower the heat and add the sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Return the Chicken

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and cook for 2–3 more minutes until heated through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Easy Chicken Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Easy Chicken Stroganoff

• Don’t overcook the chicken – Remove it from the pan once it’s just cooked through to keep it tender.
• Use fresh mushrooms – They absorb the sauce better and have a richer flavor than canned.
• Warm the sour cream slightly – This helps prevent curdling when you add it to the sauce.
• Adjust the sauce thickness – If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth; if it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer.
• Season at every stage – Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about Easy Chicken Stroganoff is how versatile it is:

1. Chicken Thigh Stroganoff – Use boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
2. Gluten-Free Version – Use cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free pasta or rice.
3. Low-Fat Version – Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt.
4. Vegetable Boost – Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
5. Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Chicken Stroganoff pairs beautifully with:

• Buttered Egg Noodles – The classic choice.
• Steamed White or Brown Rice – Great for soaking up extra sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes – For an ultra-comforting twist.
• Crusty Bread – Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad or Steamed Veggies – Adds freshness to balance the richness.

How to Store and Reheat

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer – Freeze without the noodles for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg

FAQs About Easy Chicken Stroganoff

Q1: Can I make Easy Chicken Stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the sauce and chicken in advance, store them separately, and reheat before serving.

Q2: Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Just skip the searing step and add the chicken when you stir in the sour cream.

Q3: What’s the best pasta for stroganoff?
Wide egg noodles are the classic choice, but fettuccine or penne works well too.

Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free sour cream alternative.

Q5: How do I make the sauce richer?
Add a splash of heavy cream or a small knob of butter at the end.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, savory, and satisfying, yet quick enough for a busy weeknight. With tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luxuriously smooth sauce, it’s a dish that never fails to please. By following this detailed guide and adding your own personal touches, you’ll master a recipe that’s bound to become a household favorite.

Print