Stroganoff is a dish that has comfort written all over it. Traditionally made with beef, this chicken mushroom version offers a lighter yet equally creamy and flavorful take on the classic. Tender strips of chicken are simmered in a silky sauce with onions, garlic, mushrooms, and a touch of sour cream, creating a meal that feels both cozy and satisfying. Paired with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, chicken mushroom stroganoff makes a wonderful weeknight dinner that tastes like something you would order in a restaurant.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for serving
Instructions
Prepare the chicken by seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Cook the chicken slices for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden on the outside and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the mushrooms and sauté until they release their juices and begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat. This will help thicken the sauce later.
Pour in the chicken broth slowly, stirring as you go to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard if using. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to coat with the sauce. Let it warm through for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the chicken mushroom stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Why this recipe works
Chicken stroganoff captures everything comforting about the original Russian-inspired dish but with a quicker cooking time and lighter flavor. The mushrooms bring an earthy depth, the onions and garlic add sweetness and aroma, and the sour cream ties everything together in a velvety sauce. Using chicken instead of beef makes it both budget-friendly and weeknight-friendly without losing any of the cozy appeal.
Tips for success
Slice the chicken thinly and evenly so it cooks quickly and stays tender.
Use a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini and button, for added flavor complexity.
Do not boil the sauce after adding the sour cream to avoid curdling. Keep the heat low and stir gently.
If you want extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream along with the sour cream.
Variations
For a lighter version, replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
Add a splash of white wine when cooking the mushrooms for more depth.
Toss in spinach or peas at the end for added color and nutrition.
Swap chicken for turkey or even tofu for a different protein option.
Storage and reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. This dish is not ideal for freezing because of the sour cream, which can separate upon thawing.
Serving ideas
Chicken mushroom stroganoff is best enjoyed with buttered egg noodles, but it also pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or even cauliflower mash if you prefer a lower-carb option. A side salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli balances out the richness of the dish.
Chicken mushroom stroganoff is the kind of recipe that proves comfort food can be simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying. Creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, it is sure to become a regular at your dinner table.