This Chicken Stroganoff is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs, mushrooms, and a rich sour cream sauce. Seasoned with Dijon mustard, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce, this dish is perfect when served over pasta, rice, or potatoes for a hearty meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
250g chestnut mushrooms, sliced
500g boneless, skinless chicken thigh fillets, sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
300ml chicken stock
1 tbsp sweet paprika
A few dashes of Worcestershire sauce
250ml soured cream
A small bunch of parsley, finely chopped
Pasta, rice, or potatoes (to serve, optional)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
Add the onion with a pinch of salt and fry for 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the mushrooms, increase the heat slightly, and cook for 6-8 minutes until any liquid has evaporated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken & Sauce

Add the sliced chicken and fry for 6-8 minutes until browned.
Stir in the garlic and Dijon mustard, cooking for 1 more minute.
Add the chicken stock, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Reduce the heat to low and fold in the soured cream and parsley.
Simmer gently (don’t overcook or the sauce may split).
Serve hot over pasta, rice, or potatoes.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 380 kcal
Fat: 24.9g
Saturated Fat: 10.9g
Carbohydrates: 6.8g
Sugars: 5.8g
Fiber: 2.8g
Protein: 30.6g
Salt: 1.09g

The Origins and Evolution of Stroganoff

Stroganoff is a dish with Russian origins, dating back to the 19th century. It was named after the influential Stroganov family, who were known for their love of fine cuisine and European influences in Russian cooking. The original beef stroganoff consisted of sautéed beef in a mustard and sour cream sauce, often served with potatoes or egg noodles.

Over the years, the dish evolved and spread internationally, with variations emerging across Europe, North America, and beyond. Many modern versions, like this Chicken Stroganoff recipe, substitute beef with chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms or tofu while keeping the creamy, slightly tangy sauce intact.

Why Chicken Stroganoff Stands Out

This chicken variation is lighter than the traditional beef stroganoff but still delivers richness and bold flavors. Here’s what makes it special:

Creamy and Comforting: The silky sour cream sauce is smooth, velvety, and coats every bite of chicken and mushrooms.
Deeply Savory with a Tangy Kick: Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika bring a beautifully balanced depth of flavor.
Hearty Yet Not Heavy: Unlike beef stroganoff, chicken makes this dish lighter and easier to digest while still being comforting and filling.
Versatile and Customizable: This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

The Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient in Chicken Stroganoff contributes to the richness, depth, and complexity of flavors in the dish.

Chicken Thighs: More flavorful and tender than chicken breast, thighs remain juicy even after simmering in the sauce.
Chestnut Mushrooms: Add an earthy depth and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. Other varieties like button, cremini, or wild mushrooms work just as well.
Dijon Mustard: A signature ingredient that adds a sharp tang and enhances the savory elements of the dish.
Sour Cream: Gives the sauce its signature creaminess and slightly tangy taste, balancing the richness.
Paprika: Adds a gentle warmth and smokiness, complementing the creamy sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce: Introduces a subtle umami depth, rounding out the dish.
Parsley: A finishing touch that adds freshness and a mild herbaceous contrast to the rich sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Stroganoff

Chicken Stroganoff is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of bases, allowing you to customize it to your preferences.

1. Classic Egg Noodles or Pasta

The most traditional way to serve stroganoff is over buttery egg noodles or fettuccine, which absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra black pepper for an elegant touch.

2. Mashed Potatoes for Extra Comfort

Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the rich sauce, making each bite extra indulgent.
Add a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil for extra creaminess.

3. Fluffy White or Brown Rice

Rice provides a neutral base that balances the richness of the dish.
Brown rice adds a nutty texture and extra fiber for a healthier twist.

4. Low-Carb Options: Cauliflower Rice or Zucchini Noodles

For a healthier alternative, serve with steamed cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles.
These options keep the dish light and keto-friendly while still being satisfying.

Perfect Drink Pairings

The rich, creamy, and slightly tangy nature of Chicken Stroganoff pairs well with light and crisp beverages that cut through the richness.

Chilled White Wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) – Enhances the creamy sauce while balancing the acidity.
Light Red Wine (Pinot Noir or Gamay) – A mild red wine complements the depth of paprika and Worcestershire sauce.
Sparkling Lemon Water – A non-alcoholic option that refreshes the palate between bites.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Chicken Stroganoff is a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors deepen over time. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: The sauce may separate slightly when frozen, but it can be revived with gentle reheating and an extra splash of cream. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little chicken broth or cream to bring it back to its original consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, avoid these common mistakes:

Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken thighs should be cooked just until tender. Overcooking can make them tough and dry.
Curdling the Sour Cream: Add sour cream at the very end over low heat, stirring gently to prevent it from splitting.
Skipping the Browning Step: Searing the chicken and mushrooms before simmering adds depth and intensifies the flavors.
Not Letting the Sauce Thicken: The sauce should have a rich, velvety consistency—let it simmer for a few minutes to achieve this.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, rich, and satisfying, this dish is perfect for cozy nights and family meals.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and ready in under 40 minutes, this is a stress-free yet elegant dinner option.
Customizable & Versatile: Works with different proteins, veggies, and serving bases, making it adaptable to different preferences.
Great for Leftovers & Meal Prep: The flavors improve overnight, making it a perfect dish to reheat and enjoy later.

Conclusion

Chicken Stroganoff is the perfect fusion of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, making it a comforting and versatile dish that suits all occasions. The succulent chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich, silky sauce create a harmonious balance of textures and taste.

Whether served over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, this dish never fails to impress. With its quick cooking time, rich depth of flavor, and ease of preparation, Chicken Stroganoff is a must-try recipe for home cooks looking for a satisfying yet effortless meal.

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