Name: Chicken Stroganoff
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 12 oz. egg noodles; 1.5 lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred); 4 Tbsp. salted butter, melted; 8 oz. cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced; 1 small yellow onion, sliced; 1 tsp. minced fresh thyme; 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup dry white wine (e.g., sauvignon blanc); 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, hot; 2 tsp. soy sauce; 1/4 tsp. paprika; 1 tsp. ground black pepper (plus more to taste); 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 Tbsp. dijon mustard; 2 Tbsp. chopped chives; 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish); Kosher salt, to taste

Introduction to Chicken Stroganoff

When you're craving something cozy and satisfying, look no further than Chicken Stroganoff. This dish delivers a wonderful blend of creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken that will wrap you in warmth after just a single bite. It’s the ultimate homemade comfort food, making it a family favorite that you’ll want to prepare time and again.

Why Chicken Stroganoff is the ultimate homemade comfort food?

First, let’s talk about the incredible richness of the sauce. Made creamy with sour cream, it's the perfect complement to the seasoned chicken and earthy mushrooms. Unlike your standard weeknight dinners, this dish elevates comfort food to another level, promising both flavor and heartiness.

But what really makes it stand out? It’s versatile! Serve it over buttered egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, or even fluffy rice, and you’ll have a meal that can adapt to your family's preferences. Moreover, this recipe fits snugly into a busy evening schedule, taking just under an hour to whip up. Imagine gathering around the dinner table, enjoying good company and delicious food—what could be better?

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into this delectable Chicken Stroganoff recipe!

Ingredients for Chicken Stroganoff

Essential ingredients for a delicious chicken stroganoff

Creating a succulent chicken stroganoff starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, making them the perfect base for your dish.
Cremini mushrooms: Add a rich, earthy flavor.
Fresh onion and garlic: Essential for a savory base.
Egg noodles: Traditional and comforting, they soak up the delicious sauce beautifully.
Sour cream: For that creamy, tangy finish.
Dijon mustard and soy sauce: They enhance depth and complexity in the sauce.
Vegetable broth: A great alternative to wine for that savory liquid without any alcohol.

Feel free to check this guide for more information on choosing the best mushrooms for your recipe.

Optional ingredients and substitutes

You can also get creative with optional ingredients:

Chicken ham: Great for an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley: Add freshness and aroma.
Extra vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots: If you want some extra crunch and nutrition.

If you’re out of sour cream, Greek yogurt can serve as a great substitute! Adjusting ingredients doesn’t just make cooking easier; it can also add exciting new flavors to your chicken stroganoff.

Preparing Chicken Stroganoff

Making Chicken Stroganoff is a delightful experience that’ll have your kitchen filled with comforting aromas in no time. Let’s dive into the steps to bring this creamy, rich dish to life!

Gather and prep your ingredients

To kick off your Chicken Stroganoff, it’s all about organization. Make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

12 oz. egg noodles
4 tbsp. salted butter
1 ½ lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
8 oz. cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 small yellow onion, sliced
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
½ cup sour cream
Other essentials: Kosher salt, paprika, ground black pepper, fresh thyme, chives, and Dijon mustard

Chop, slice, and measure everything out beforehand to streamline your cooking process. It’s all about setting yourself up for success in the kitchen!

Cook the egg noodles

While your prep is underway, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 5 to 6 minutes. When they’re al dente, drain and return them to the pot. Toss them with a couple of tablespoons of butter and a sprinkle of chopped parsley while keeping them warm. This step not only adds flavor but also ensures your noodles aren’t sticking together when you serve your dish.

Sauté the chicken

In an extra-large skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned chicken – don’t forget the paprika and a good pinch of salt and pepper! Sauté until browned and cooked through, roughly 8 to 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken to a plate and set aside. You want those delicious drippings left in the pan for the next step.

Make the creamy sauce

Now it’s time for magic! Add the mushrooms, onions, and thyme to the drippings in the skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the onions are golden and the mushrooms have released their moisture, about 5 to 6 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for a few minutes before gradually adding the hot vegetable broth. Allow the mixture to thicken, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Combine chicken with the sauce

Once your sauce is thickened, return the chicken to the skillet, along with any juice from the plate. Heat everything through for about a minute. Then, remove from the heat and stir in your sour cream, Dijon mustard, chopped chives, and a bit of parsley. This blend creates an incredibly flavorful sauce that wraps around the chicken beautifully.

Plate and garnish your stroganoff

Serve your luscious Chicken Stroganoff over the buttered egg noodles you prepped earlier. A final touch of parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness. Quick tip: a sprinkle of cracked black pepper enhances the dish's visual appeal and flavor!

And just like that, you have a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Enjoy!

Variations on Chicken Stroganoff

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Stroganoff

For a delightful twist on traditional Chicken Stroganoff, try adding extra mushrooms! Using a mix of cremini and button mushrooms adds depth and richness to the sauce. Sauté them until they’re golden brown, then proceed with your creamy mixture as usual. This variation not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely texture that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.

Healthy Chicken Stroganoff with Greek Yogurt

Want to enjoy a lighter version? Swap out the sour cream for creamy Greek yogurt. This simple switch reduces the calories while still providing a silky texture. Just remember to add the yogurt off the heat to prevent curdling. This healthy take on Chicken Stroganoff still delivers on taste while being nutritious—perfect for weeknight dinners! For more healthy cooking tips, check out EatingWell.

Cooking Notes for Chicken Stroganoff

Tips for Perfecting Your Stroganoff

To elevate your Chicken Stroganoff, cook the chicken thighs until golden brown for a deeper flavor. Don't rush the mushrooms; let them brown for that rich umami taste. When adding the sour cream, be sure to temper it with a bit of the sauce first to prevent curdling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: Avoid drying out your chicken by cooking it just until it reaches a safe internal temperature.
Skipping the Deglazing: Don’t skip the step of deglazing the pan; that’s where much of the flavor hides. Instead of wine, try using extra broth!
Rushing the Noodles: Make sure your noodles are cooked al dente for that perfect bite and to hold onto the delicious sauce better.

Happy cooking! For more chicken dinner ideas, check out these easy chicken recipes.

Serving suggestions for Chicken Stroganoff

Ideal sides to complement your dish

Pairing Chicken Stroganoff with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level. Traditional egg noodles are fantastic, but consider these delicious alternatives:

Creamy mashed potatoes for a rich, comforting base.
Cooked white rice, a versatile option that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Roasted vegetables like carrots and broccoli for a healthy, colorful addition.

These sides not only enhance the flavor profile but also bring balance to the meal.

Presentation ideas for a beautiful plate

When it comes to serving your Chicken Stroganoff, presentation matters! Start with a base of your chosen side—be it noodles or potatoes. Then, generously spoon the savory chicken and mushroom sauce on top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. For that extra touch, consider adding some chives or even a side of lemon wedges for brightness. A beautifully plated dish not only looks appealing but also entices your guests before they even take a bite!

If you want to learn more about presentation techniques, check out The Kitchn's expert tips on plating.

Time details for Chicken Stroganoff

When you're ready to whip up a delicious Chicken Stroganoff, here's what you can expect in terms of time:

Preparation time

Get your ingredients prepped and ready to go in about 15 minutes. This includes chopping your chicken, onions, and mushrooms, so you can dive right into cooking!

Cooking time

The cooking process will take approximately 40 minutes. That’s enough time to transform those fresh ingredients into a creamy, dreamy dish.

Total time

By the time you're done, you’ll spend about 55 minutes from start to finish. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress!

For other fun recipes, you might enjoy checking out The Pioneer Woman's complete collection!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Stroganoff

When you indulge in this delicious Chicken Stroganoff, it's good to know what's on your plate. Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown for your meal:

Calories

A serving of Chicken Stroganoff contains approximately 450 calories, making it a hearty dish that satisfies your comfort food cravings without overdoing it.

Protein

This dish is packed with protein, offering about 30 grams per serving, thanks to the tender chicken thighs, which help keep you full and support muscle health.

Sodium

For those mindful of their salt intake, each serving has roughly 800 milligrams of sodium. Consider using low-sodium vegetable broth and soy sauce to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor!

By being aware of these key nutrients, you can enjoy your Chicken Stroganoff even more, knowing it’s both tasty and nourishing! If you're looking to dive deeper into understanding nutrition, check out the USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive food data.

FAQs about Chicken Stroganoff

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and juiciness, you can definitely substitute them with chicken breasts if that's your preference. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as breasts can cook faster and may dry out if overcooked.

How can I make my stroganoff lighter?

To create a lighter version of Chicken Stroganoff, consider these easy swaps:

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for creaminess with less fat.
Opt for whole wheat egg noodles or zoodles for a healthier pasta option.
Reduce the amount of butter or use a light cooking spray to sauté your ingredients.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If sour cream isn’t on hand, a few tasty alternatives include:

Plain Greek yogurt for a similar tang and texture.
Cottage cheese blended until smooth for a protein boost.
Silken tofu for a dairy-free option that also adds creaminess.

Feel free to experiment with these substitutes to perfectly fit your taste! For more tips on healthier meal options, check out this article.

Conclusion on Chicken Stroganoff

Recap of why you should try making chicken stroganoff tonight

If you're seeking a warm and comforting dish for dinner, Chicken Stroganoff is your answer! Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and easy preparation make it a delightful choice for a quick weeknight meal. Dive into a plate of this hearty goodness and savor every bite!