Name: Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 600 g boneless skinless chicken thighs ((4 - 5 pieces)); 1 tsp garlic powder; salt; pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion (chopped); 300 g mushrooms (sliced (not too thin)); 40 g butter; 2 tbsp flour; 2 cups beef broth/stock (salt reduced); 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 150 g sour cream ((or yogurt)); 250 - 300 g pasta or egg noodles ((8 - 10 oz)); chopped parsley or chives (for garnish (optional))

Chicken Stroganoff Recipe Overview

Why Chicken Stroganoff is a Weeknight Winner

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly meal, the chicken stroganoff recipe is a fantastic choice! With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish brings warmth and comfort to even the busiest weeknights.

Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken thighs simmered in a creamy mushroom gravy that clings beautifully to pasta or egg noodles. It’s a dish that feels elegant but is incredibly easy to whip up. You’ll not only impress your family but also enjoy a delightful meal yourself!

One of the best parts of this recipe is that it utilizes simple ingredients, many of which you probably have in your pantry already. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, you’ll appreciate how easily this dish comes together.

Using chicken thighs instead of breasts adds to the flavor and juiciness, but feel free to adapt it to your preferences. If you're a fan of rich flavors, be sure to check out techniques for enhancing the gravy, like deglazing the pan to capture all those delicious golden bits!

For extra tips and tricks, including variations for dietary needs, visit sources like BBC Good Food or Serious Eats for inspiration. Happy cooking!

Ingredients for Chicken Stroganoff

Essential Ingredients

When preparing your delicious chicken stroganoff recipe, it’s important to gather some essential ingredients that create the foundation of this comforting dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken thighs: 600g (about 1.2 lb), boneless and skinless for tenderness.
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon adds a flavorsome kick.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Olive oil: 1 tbsp, for that perfect sear.

For the gravy, you will need:

Onion: 1 large, chopped for sweetness.
Mushrooms: 300g (10 oz), sliced - they bring earthiness to the dish.
Butter: 40g (3 tbsp) for richness.
Flour: 2 tbsp, acting as a thickener (or consider cornstarch for a gluten-free option).
Beef broth: 2 cups (500 ml), ensuring a savory base.
Dijon mustard: 1 tbsp, for depth of flavor.
Sour cream: ⅔ cup (150g), for creaminess.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

Feel free to get creative and personalize your chicken stroganoff with some optional ingredients:

Pasta or egg noodles: 250 - 300g (8 - 10 oz) for serving.
Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or chives for garnish.
Vegetables: Consider adding spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.

For more ingredient ideas and suggestions on customizing your chicken stroganoff, check out this resource for tips! Enjoy crafting your perfect dish!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Chicken Stroganoff

Creating a delicious chicken stroganoff recipe doesn't have to be daunting. With these simple steps, you'll be savoring a rich and creamy dish that's perfect for any night of the week. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Prepare the Chicken

Start by making your chicken the star of the show. You'll need 600g (around 1.2 lbs) of boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor. Here's how to prepare them:

Season the chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, along with salt and pepper to taste.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Place the chicken in the skillet, smooth side down, and press it lightly with a spatula. This simple step helps form a golden sear, enhancing the overall flavor.
Cook for about 4 minutes until golden, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

Create the Flavor Base with Onions and Mushrooms

Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to build a rich flavor base. The key ingredients here are:

1 large onion, chopped
300g (10 oz) mushrooms, sliced (not too thin)

In that same skillet, you'll want to:

Increase the heat to medium-high and add 40g (3 tbsp) of butter. Allow it to melt.
Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 1 minute before introducing the mushrooms.
Cook the mushrooms until they turn golden brown, and be sure to scrape up those delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor!

Make the Creamy Stroganoff Sauce

To create the iconic creamy sauce that makes chicken stroganoff so special:

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the cooked onions and mushrooms, cooking for an additional minute while stirring.
Gradually pour in 2 cups (500 ml) of reduced-salt beef broth while stirring continuously to incorporate.
Once fully combined, stir in ⅔ cup (150g) of sour cream and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Don’t be concerned if the sauce looks a bit split at first; it will come together as it heats.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce the heat to medium-low, cooking until it thickens to a pouring cream consistency—this should take about 3 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Now it’s time to reunite the chicken with the creamy sauce!

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, along with any juices that accumulated on the plate.
Let it simmer in the sauce for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve it Up!

Your scrumptious chicken stroganoff is ready, and serving it is the best part!

Cook your choice of pasta (about 250-300g or 8-10 oz) or egg noodles according to package instructions.
Serve the chicken and sauce over the pasta, proudly garnishing with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Enjoy this comforting dish, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend!

Variations on Chicken Stroganoff

Chicken Stroganoff with a Twist

If you're looking for a fun chicken stroganoff recipe variation, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for a burst of flavor! You can also try using Turkey Bacon instead of traditional bacon for a lighter option. Additionally, swap out the beef broth with a rich vegetable stock for a vegetarian take that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Healthier Options

For those watching their health, try our lightened-up chicken stroganoff recipe! Use low-fat sour cream and reduce the butter to enhance the dish's health quotient. Serve it over whole grain pasta or zoodles to keep it nutritious. Adding extra veggies like broccoli or zucchini not only boosts the nutrition but adds vibrant colors to your plate! Always remember, a little creativity in the kitchen can transform your meals!

Looking for more tips? Need a quick vegetable stock recipe? Check out this great guide on homemade stocks.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Stroganoff

Quick Tips for Success

Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for skinless, boneless chicken thighs for maximum flavor, but breasts work well too!
Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow your chicken to brown properly for richer flavor. Patience pays off!
Creamy Sauce: Stir in the sour cream just before serving to keep it smooth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid Overcooking Chicken: Slice the chicken too thin and forget to watch the timing? It can lead to toughness.
Forget to Scrape the Pan: Those golden bits left after frying the chicken hold essential flavors for your allege chicken stroganoff recipe! Don't skip this step!
Skipping the Sauce Tasting: Always taste before serving! Adjust seasoning to your preference for the best experience.

For more tips, explore Food Network or Serious Eats. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Stroganoff

Perfect Side Dishes

To elevate your chicken stroganoff recipe, consider pairing it with sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some winners:

Egg Noodles: A classic choice that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes provide a comforting base.
Steamed Vegetables: Fresh broccoli or green beans add a vibrant touch.
Rice or Quinoa: These grains are perfect for capturing every drop of sauce.

Garnishing Your Dish

A little garnish can go a long way! Here's how to make your chicken stroganoff visually appealing:

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Sour Cream Drizzle: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and a creamy finish.
Zest and Spice: A hint of lemon zest or a sprinkle of paprika can add a delightful twist.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create the perfect meal experience! For more inspiration, check out Food Network’s side dish ideas. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Stroganoff

Preparation Time

Getting ready for your chicken stroganoff recipe is a breeze! You’ll need about 5 minutes to gather your ingredients and season the chicken. Make sure everything is within reach, so you can flow smoothly into cooking.

Cooking Time

Once you’re prepped, this dish comes together in a sweet 15 minutes of cooking time. That’s right—dinner can be on the table in no time!

Total Time

In total, you’ll spend just 20 minutes on this delightful meal. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting but still want to stick to a timeline. Enjoy every bite and the compliments you’re sure to receive!

For more tips on meal prep, check out resources like The Kitchn for quick cooking strategies and ideas.

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Stroganoff

Calories per Serving

Each serving of this delicious Chicken Stroganoff recipe contains approximately 389 calories. This makes it a hearty choice, perfect for a filling meal without completely derailing your daily calorie intake.

Key Nutritional Values

This creamy dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a quick snapshot of what you get per serving:

Protein: Around 30g, providing a great source of energy and muscle support.
Fat: About 22g, including healthy fats from olive oil and sour cream.
Carbohydrates: Roughly 15g, depending on the type of pasta served.
Fiber: Varies based on the pasta choice, but adding vegetables can enhance this.

When enjoying this chicken stroganoff, consider pairing it with whole-grain pasta for an extra fiber boost—check this guide on the benefits of whole grains for more insights. The balance of protein and carbohydrates can help keep you full and satisfied for longer.

For a more in-depth look at the nutritional value of chicken, you might find this USDA nutrition data helpful! It’s always good to understand what you’re putting into your body, right?

FAQs about Chicken Stroganoff

How can I make Chicken Stroganoff gluten-free?

To whip up a delicious gluten-free Chicken Stroganoff recipe, simply replace the flour with cornstarch. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of water to create a slurry, then add this to the broth while cooking. Make sure to use gluten-free pasta or serve over rice for a fantastic meal!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs add a rich flavor and tenderness, chicken breasts are a leaner option that works just fine. If you opt for breasts, slice them horizontally to ensure even cooking.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you’re out of sour cream or looking for a healthier option, plain yogurt can be a great substitute. Greek yogurt works beautifully, giving that creamy texture you crave. Alternatively, a mix of cream cheese and milk can achieve a similar result!

Feel free to explore more tips on substituting ingredients for your Chicken Stroganoff recipe for even more culinary delights!

Conclusion on Chicken Stroganoff

In conclusion, this chicken stroganoff recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, combining tender chicken with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Quick to prepare and utterly delicious, it's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve it over pasta or noodles, and enjoy every savory bite!