Perfect Chicken Stroganoff: A Foolproof Recipe in Just 20 Minutes
Looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s ready fast and full of rich flavor? This chicken stroganoff recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner in just 20 minutes. Juicy chicken, golden mushrooms, and a silky sour cream sauce come together in one pan for a weeknight dinner that never disappoints.
Whether you’re a beginner or a home cook looking to upgrade your skills, this foolproof recipe guide walks you through everything—from the best ingredients to secret pro tips that guarantee success every time.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stroganoff
- Ready in just 20 minutes
- Made with everyday ingredients
- High protein comfort food (23g per serving)
- Creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying
- Pairs perfectly with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or use cornstarch for gluten-free)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms (baby bella), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)Prep Tips Before You Start
✔️ Cut Evenly
Cut chicken into uniform 1–2 inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Pat dry with paper towels to promote a golden crust when searing.
✔️ Season Boldly
Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then coat the chicken evenly before dredging in flour. This builds foundational flavor.
✔️ Set Up for Success
Organize your workspace into zones: prep, dredging, cooking, and holding. Pre-measure all ingredients—timing matters during the sauce phase!
How to Make Chicken Stroganoff – Step by Step
1. Sear the Chicken
In a hot skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add the floured, seasoned chicken in a single layer. Sear until golden—about 4 minutes on the first side for thighs, 2–3 minutes per side for breasts. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions
Add butter to the same skillet. Sauté sliced onions for 1–2 minutes, then add mushrooms. Let them release their moisture and brown—about 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally and scrape up the flavorful brown bits (fond) from the pan.
3. Build the Stroganoff Sauce
Add minced garlic, mustard, and Worcestershire. Stir for 1 minute, then pour in chicken broth, scraping up any remaining fond. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
4. Add Sour Cream and Chicken
Turn off the heat and stir in sour cream. Add chicken back to the skillet and coat in sauce. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken stroganoff pairs beautifully with:
- Buttery egg noodles
- Steamed white rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it lighter: Swap half the sour cream for Greek yogurt (be cautious—it may curdle more easily).
- Want more tang? Add a splash of lemon juice at the end.
- Mushroom variety: Shiitake or mixed mushrooms add even more depth.
- No flour? Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate after thawing.
Final Thoughts
This is more than just a quick meal—it’s a masterclass in creating depth of flavor using simple, everyday ingredients. By following the right techniques—browning, building flavor in layers, and finishing with tangy richness—you’ll have a perfect chicken stroganoff every single time.
Save this recipe for your next cozy dinner, and don’t forget to try it with mashed potatoes—it’s pure comfort on a plate!