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Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners, then you have to try this Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe. I absolutely love how this comes together so quickly yet tastes like you’ve been cooking it all day. It’s packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a silky sauce that just hugs every bite. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become one of your go-to meals for busy nights or any time you want a little extra comfort food magic.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Speedy and Satisfying: You’ll get a creamy, hearty dish on the table in just about 35 minutes.
  • Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples and easy-to-find items makes this recipe super approachable.
  • Crowd Pleaser: My family goes crazy for this one; it’s a recipe that pleases all ages.
  • Versatile and Customizable: You can tweak the seasoning or swap mushrooms based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe plays a part in building those deep, cozy flavors. From the spices that give the chicken a gentle kick to the butter and sour cream that add luscious creaminess, each element works beautifully together. When shopping, try to find fresh mushrooms and good-quality chicken breasts for the best results.

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe - Ingredients
  • Chicken breasts: I like using boneless and skinless for easy prep and cut into bite-sized chunks for quick cooking.
  • Garlic powder & onion powder: These bring subtle depth to the chicken seasoning without overpowering the dish.
  • Paprika & cayenne pepper: Adds warmth and just a touch of heat, but you can adjust the cayenne to your spice preference.
  • Kosher salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
  • Olive oil: I use this for browning the chicken and sautéing the veggies for a nice, clean flavor.
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch once softened.
  • Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is a game-changer for that punch of aroma and taste.
  • Baby bella mushrooms: I love these because they hold up well and add a meaty texture.
  • Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps build the creamy sauce.
  • All-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce perfectly without lumps.
  • Chicken broth: Provides a savory base that’s full of flavor.
  • Worcestershire sauce: This ingredient brings a little umami and complexity to the sauce.
  • Sour cream: The secret to that signature creamy texture that’s tangy and smooth.
  • Cooked egg noodles: Classic comfort – the perfect bed for soaking up all that sauce.
  • Fresh parsley: For garnish and a pop of color and freshness.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I love swapping out a few ingredients here and there to suit what’s in my fridge or my mood that day. Feel free to get creative—you’ll find variations that work whether you want more veggies, a dairy-free twist, or a little extra spice.

  • Mushroom swaps: Sometimes I use cremini or shiitake mushrooms for a different earthy flavor; they soak up the sauce beautifully.
  • Dairy-free version: I’ve replaced sour cream with coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt, and it still comes out creamy and delicious.
  • More veggies: Adding bell peppers or spinach gives a nice pop of color and nutrition without overwhelming the dish.
  • Spice it up: If you like heat, toss in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce—I learned that little kick makes a big difference.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken

Mix the chicken chunks in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This hits all the right savory notes right away. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. You’ll want the oil shimmering before adding the chicken—that’s the key to getting a nice brown crust without sticking. Cook the chicken just until the outside is golden; it’s okay if it isn’t cooked through yet because we’ll finish it later. Cooking in batches helps avoid overcrowding and steaming the chicken, which can make it tough. Transfer the chicken to a plate when done.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions, Garlic, and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and cook till softened and lightly golden—this takes about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about a minute; garlic can burn quickly so keep an eye on it. Then add the sliced mushrooms, stirring occasionally until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. This caramelization adds a ton of flavor, so be patient here. If the pan dries up, a little splash of oil or butter helps.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the butter until melted, scraping up the tasty browned bits stuck to the pan—that’s pure flavor gold. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine, cooking it out until the flour is fully absorbed and no lumps remain, around 2 minutes. This step is what thickens your sauce up beautifully. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce for that subtle umami boost. Now, return the chicken to the skillet, including any juices from the plate. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce smooth out and coat the chicken perfectly.

Step 4: Finish with Sour Cream

Take the skillet off the heat and gently stir in the sour cream. This is the magic moment when the sauce turns unbelievably creamy without curdling—as long as you avoid boiling after adding the sour cream. The tangy richness balances the spices and mushrooms beautifully. Give it a taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve Over Egg Noodles

Serve this creamy chicken stroganoff hot over a bed of perfectly cooked egg noodles. They soak up the sauce wonderfully and add that soft, comforting bite. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness, and you’re ready to dig in!

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Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Browning chicken in batches helps maintain that beautiful sear and prevents steaming, which keeps the texture tender and juicy.
  • Use Room Temperature Sour Cream: I learned that adding cold sour cream straight from the fridge can cause the sauce to split; letting it warm up a bit helps it blend smoothly.
  • Scrape Those Brown Bits: The bits stuck to the pan after cooking the chicken are packed with flavor—scrape them up with the butter to deepen the sauce’s taste.
  • Simmer, Don’t Boil After Adding Sour Cream: Boiling after the sour cream goes in can cause curdling—just a gentle heat keeps your sauce silky.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I always finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley—it adds a bright green pop and a little fresh herbaceous note that balances the richness. Sometimes I like to add a small dollop of sour cream on top for presentation and an extra touch of creaminess right before serving.

Side Dishes

While the egg noodles stand beautifully on their own, I like pairing the stroganoff with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed green beans and garlic bread also make excellent companions, balancing the creaminess with some crunch and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this stroganoff in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and fresh chives. It looks fancy but feels homey—plus, it’s fun to plate each serving separately. You can also layer it over mashed potatoes instead of noodles for a cozy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your creamy chicken stroganoff, wrap up leftovers tightly in an airtight container or plastic wrap. I’ve stored this in the fridge for up to four days, and it reheats beautifully without drying out, especially when covered.

Freezing

I’ve had good luck freezing the stroganoff without noodles—just the chicken and sauce—in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add freshly cooked noodles right before serving to keep everything fresh.

Reheating

I prefer reheating leftovers slowly over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave works in a pinch but stirring halfway through helps keep it from drying out. Avoid high heat to keep the cream from breaking.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this recipe?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

  2. Is there a dairy-free option for the sour cream in this stroganoff?

    Yes! You can substitute sour cream with coconut cream, cashew cream, or a plant-based yogurt to keep the dish creamy while making it dairy-free. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor profile but works well if you need alternatives.

  3. What can I serve this creamy chicken stroganoff recipe with if I don’t like egg noodles?

    If egg noodles aren’t your thing, mashed potatoes, rice, or even cauliflower rice make excellent bases. I’ve also enjoyed it over buttered pasta shells or spiralized veggies for a lighter option.

  4. How can I keep the sauce from curdling?

    The key is to avoid boiling the sauce after adding sour cream. Remove the pan from heat before stirring in the sour cream, then warm gently to combine. Also, letting the sour cream come to room temperature before adding helps keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I’ve shared it countless times with friends and family, and everyone always asks for seconds. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight but comforting enough to impress company. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll have a new favorite comfort food that’s both easy and delicious.

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Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 136 reviews
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Russian-American

Description

This Chicken Stroganoff is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken chunks simmered in a savory mushroom sauce made with garlic, onions, and a touch of paprika and cayenne for subtle heat. Served over egg noodles and garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly using simple ingredients.


Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Cooking Fat and Vegetables

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups sliced baby bella mushrooms
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Sauce Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ⅓ cup sour cream

To Serve

  • Cooked egg noodles
  • Parsley, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine chicken chunks with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
  2. Brown the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Working in batches if needed, cook the chicken pieces just until the outside is browned but not fully cooked through. Transfer the browned chicken to a clean plate.
  3. Sauté onions and garlic: Using the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Cook mushrooms and make roux: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until browned and their moisture has evaporated. Stir in the butter until melted, scraping up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly to form a roux, cooking until no lumps remain and the flour is fully incorporated.
  5. Simmer the sauce and chicken: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring, then add Worcestershire sauce. Return the browned chicken along with its juices to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Finish with sour cream: Stir the sour cream into the sauce until fully incorporated and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Serve: Spoon the creamy chicken stroganoff over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • TO STORE LEFTOVERS: Store leftover chicken stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best freshness, wrap tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
  • For a tangier sauce, add an extra tablespoon of sour cream just before serving.
  • Use gluten-free flour and noodles to adapt this recipe for gluten intolerance.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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