Introduction and Origin
Easy Chicken Stroganoff is a creamy, comforting dish inspired by the traditional Russian beef stroganoff. This modern version swaps beef for tender chicken breast, making it lighter and quicker to prepare. Beloved in many households, it’s known for its rich, savory sauce and simple preparation — a weeknight favorite that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Cultural Significance
Originally a 19th-century Russian delicacy, stroganoff has since been adapted worldwide with regional twists. In the U.S., chicken stroganoff became popular for its budget-friendly ingredients and ease of cooking, aligning with family-friendly meal planning. It represents the evolution of classic recipes into everyday staples.
Ingredients Quantity
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
Optional Additions
- A splash of white wine for extra depth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- A pinch of smoked paprika for added warmth
- Egg noodles or mashed potatoes as a serving base
- Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version
Tips for Success
- Dredging the chicken in flour helps achieve a golden crust and thickens the sauce naturally.
- Sear the chicken without overcrowding the pan to keep it from steaming.
- Cook the onions and mushrooms until well caramelized for richer flavor.
- Stir in sour cream at the end off the heat to prevent curdling.
- Let the stroganoff rest a couple of minutes before serving for best flavor melding.
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized strips and dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter to the same skillet. Sauté mushrooms and onions until softened and golden, about 6–8 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
- Return the chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve warm over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Description
Easy Chicken Stroganoff is a creamy, savory dish brimming with tender chicken, umami-rich mushrooms, and a silky sour cream sauce. The balance of earthy, tangy, and aromatic flavors makes it a satisfying comfort food that feels both hearty and refined.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion
Easy Chicken Stroganoff is a crowd-pleaser that’s earned its place as a family favorite, even among picky eaters. With just one skillet and pantry staples, it delivers big on comfort and flavor.
Recommendation
Serve this dish with buttered egg noodles or fluffy mashed potatoes for a classic pairing. Add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans to round out the meal with some freshness and crunch.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dish more health-conscious, try using low-sodium broth, whole wheat noodles, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You’ll still enjoy the creamy texture and bold flavor with a lighter nutritional footprint—perfect for indulging responsibly.