Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Name: Creamy Chicken Stroganoff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts: cut into 1-inch pieces for tender protein; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: adds savory flavor; Salt and pepper to taste: essential for seasoning; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: used for dredging and thickening the sauce; 3 tablespoons olive oil: for sautéing chicken; 1 tablespoon butter: adds richness to the vegetables; 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced: brings earthy umami flavor; 1/2 medium sweet onion, chopped: adds aromatic depth; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: sharpens and balances the sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: adds umami complexity; 3 cloves garlic, minced: for a flavor punch; 2/3 cup chicken broth: builds a flavorful sauce base; 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream: adds creaminess and tang

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This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is a weeknight hero — quick to prepare, rich in flavor, and irresistibly comforting. With tender chicken bites nestled in a velvety sour cream mushroom sauce, this dish captures the cozy essence of classic stroganoff while swapping beef for leaner chicken. Whether you’re after a family-friendly dinner or a creamy indulgence to wind down the day, this easy recipe checks every box with its balance of tang, texture, and deep umami flavor.

A Cozy Skillet Dinner You’ll Want on Repeat

What makes this creamy chicken stroganoff so special? It’s the perfect trifecta of flavor, ease, and satisfaction. This version takes only 30 minutes to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The rich mushroom and onion base builds deep flavor, while Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add savory complexity. The use of sour cream creates a luxuriously creamy sauce with a subtle tang — signature to stroganoff recipes.

You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients either. With simple pantry staples and a few fresh items, you’ll create a one-pan dish that rivals restaurant-quality comfort food.

What You’ll Need to Make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Chicken Breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they’re lean and protein-rich
Garlic Powder: Adds a base layer of savory flavor
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer

Flour: Helps sear the chicken and gives it a golden crust that thickens the sauce later
Olive Oil: Used to brown the chicken; enhances flavor with a light richness
Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the mushrooms and onions

Cremini Mushrooms: These baby bellas bring a meaty, earthy flavor
Onion (preferably sweet/Vidalia): Provides sweetness and aromatic depth
Dijon Mustard: Delivers a tangy punch and sharpens the overall flavor

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and a hint of depth
Fresh Garlic: Enhances the savoriness of the sauce
Chicken Broth: Builds a savory base for the sauce

Full-Fat Sour Cream: Creates the creamy, tangy signature stroganoff sauce

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Mushrooms: Swap cremini for white button mushrooms if preferred
Sour Cream: Avoid substituting with Greek yogurt—it may curdle and alter the taste

Onion: Shallots can be used for a slightly sweeter, milder flavor
Flavor Boost: A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the sauce
Herbs: Add chopped parsley or thyme for freshness

Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Prep the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch chunks. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece lightly in flour.
Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a hot skillet. Cook chicken in two batches to avoid crowding. Sear for about 3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). Transfer to a plate.
Sauté Mushrooms and Onion
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add sliced mushrooms and chopped onion. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, allowing the moisture to evaporate and the mushrooms to brown.

Add Aromatics and Flavor Base
Stir in minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Deglaze with Broth
Pour in chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release browned bits. These add great flavor to the sauce.
Return Chicken to Skillet
Add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes to combine flavors.

Finish with Sour Cream
Reduce heat to low. Stir in full-fat sour cream until smooth and heated through (do not boil). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve Immediately
Enjoy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Stroganoff

Sear in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a proper golden crust

Don’t Overcook Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry, rubbery bites
Deglaze Thoroughly: Scraping up the brown bits is key to flavor
Use Full-Fat Sour Cream: For the best consistency and taste

Avoid High Heat After Adding Sour Cream: This prevents curdling
Leftovers Tip: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat

What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy base that absorbs the sauce beautifully

Buttered Egg Noodles: A traditional favorite
Steamed Rice: Soaks up every drop of the creamy sauce
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans

Fresh Salads: Caesar salad or a mixed greens vinaigrette side

Creative Variations to Try

Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower mash or zoodles
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Cheesy Option: Sprinkle Parmesan or Gruyère before serving
Make-Ahead: Prep ingredients in advance for a faster weeknight meal

Seasonal and Comfort Food Appeal

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is especially comforting in cooler months when you’re craving hearty, filling meals. But it’s light enough for spring or fall, especially with a salad or veggie pairing. If you love cold-weather comfort food but want a lighter protein option than beef, this chicken version is the perfect choice. It’s also kid-friendly, making it a great family dinner staple.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

This dish isn’t just about indulgence—it’s about balance. Juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a perfectly creamy sauce come together in one skillet. It’s affordable, uses pantry staples, and delivers flavor that tastes like it took hours — in under 30 minutes.

Wrapping Up the Creamy Chicken Stroganoff Experience

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and satisfying, Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is a timeless choice. It strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence — all in one skillet. With just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you can serve a creamy, flavorful, and restaurant-worthy dinner.

The key to success lies in the little details: getting a good sear, using full-fat sour cream, and building flavor with every step. Bookmark this recipe, because once you make it, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation. Creamy Chicken Stroganoff isn’t just a meal — it’s comfort in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Stroganoff

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute. They tend to be juicier and offer a slightly richer flavor. Just ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F before adding back into the sauce.

How can I make this Creamy Chicken Stroganoff gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Also, ensure that your Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare Creamy Chicken Stroganoff ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance. Cook the stroganoff just before serving for the best creamy texture. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days and gently reheated on the stove.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If your sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth until desired consistency is reached. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) to thicken it slightly.

More Relevant Recipes

Creamy Herb Chicken: This rich and savory chicken recipe features a creamy herb-infused sauce that closely mirrors the comfort and indulgence of Creamy Chicken Stroganoff. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs well with mashed potatoes or rice.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken: A flavorful twist on creamy chicken dishes, this recipe combines tender chicken with a velvety sun-dried tomato sauce. It offers the same richness and ease as chicken stroganoff but with a Mediterranean touch.
Creamy Boursin Chicken: Bursting with flavor from creamy Boursin cheese and herbs, this recipe is a must-try for fans of chicken stroganoff. The sauce is luscious and tangy, perfect for spooning over pasta or mashed potatoes.

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff – Best 30-Minute Dinner

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