Easy & Quick Chicken Stroganoff

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Quick Chicken Stroganoff: Creamy, Comforting, and Ready in Minutes

If you’re craving a hearty, creamy dinner that’s both comforting and quick, this Quick Chicken Stroganoff is the perfect choice. Juicy chicken, tender mushrooms, and a rich, flavorful sauce come together in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying dish without a long cooking time.

Chicken Stroganoff is a lighter twist on the classic beef version, yet it retains all the creamy, savory flavors that make this dish a favorite. Served over egg noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes, it’s a versatile and delicious option that pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Creamy and comforting – Rich sauce coats every bite.
  • Family-friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
  • Versatile – Serve over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
  • Minimal ingredients – Simple pantry staples create maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Stroganoff

  • 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 8 ounces (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For Serving

  • Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes
  • Additional parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  3. Add chicken to the skillet and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
  4. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add the onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add garlic and mushrooms, sautéing for another 3–4 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.

3. Make the Sauce

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in Dijon mustard and paprika.
  2. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Lower the heat and stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt, mixing until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

4. Combine and Finish

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to coat with the sauce.
  2. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Serve

  1. Spoon the creamy chicken stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
  3. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor.

Tips for Perfect Quick Chicken Stroganoff

  • Use tender cuts of chicken – Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs cook quickly and stay juicy.
  • Don’t overcook mushrooms – They should be lightly browned for maximum flavor.
  • Simmer gently – Prevent sour cream from curdling by keeping the heat low when adding it to the sauce.
  • Make it creamier – Add an extra tablespoon of sour cream for a richer sauce.
  • Customize your vegetables – Peas, spinach, or bell peppers can be added for extra color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

  • Over noodles – Egg noodles are traditional and soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • With rice – White, brown, or wild rice work well to make the meal hearty.
  • Mashed potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes complement the sauce and add comfort.
  • Side vegetables – Pair with steamed green beans, broccoli, or a crisp salad for balance.

Creative Variations

  1. Garlic and Herb Stroganoff – Add a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
  2. Spicy Stroganoff – Stir in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a mild heat.
  3. Mushroom-Heavy Version – Increase mushrooms for a more earthy flavor and vegetarian twist (omit chicken).
  4. Cheesy Stroganoff – Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan to the sauce for extra richness.
  5. Low-Carb Option – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional starches.

Meal Prep and Storage

  • Refrigeration – Store leftover stroganoff in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore creaminess.
  • Freezing – Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce (without noodles) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
  • Make-ahead – Chop vegetables and prepare chicken in advance for faster cooking during the week.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Chicken – Lean protein source, supports muscle repair and satiety.
  • Mushrooms – Provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and calcium; Greek yogurt provides extra protein.
  • Vegetables – Onions and optional additions like peas or spinach increase vitamins and fiber.

This dish balances comfort and nutrition, making it a well-rounded, satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Why This Recipe Works

The Quick Chicken Stroganoff recipe works because:

  • Balanced flavors – Garlic, mushrooms, mustard, and paprika create depth and richness.
  • Creamy texture – Sour cream or Greek yogurt produces a velvety sauce without heaviness.
  • Quick cooking – Chicken cooks rapidly, and the sauce comes together in under 30 minutes.
  • Versatile base – Can be served with noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes to suit preferences.
  • Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples for easy weeknight cooking.

This combination ensures a flavorful, comforting meal that is both fast and satisfying.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

  • Plated individually – Spoon stroganoff over noodles or rice and sprinkle with parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.
  • Family-style – Serve directly from the skillet for a casual, communal meal.
  • Add color – Garnish with finely chopped chives, bell peppers, or green peas for visual appeal.
  • Pair with bread – A slice of crusty bread or a soft dinner roll can help scoop up every bit of creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

Quick Chicken Stroganoff is a go-to recipe for busy cooks who crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Its creamy, savory sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful mushrooms make it a beloved dish for both kids and adults.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep, this dish proves that comfort food can be quick, easy, and delicious. With its versatility, minimal ingredients, and one-skillet convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again.

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