1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the olive oil or butter. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are browned and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Deglaze and Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the Dijon mustard and paprika.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
3. Finish the Sauce
- Add Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Mix well to combine. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of water to form a slurry and stir it into the sauce, cooking for a few more minutes until thickened.
- Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve
- Prepare Sides: Cook your choice of egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes according to package instructions or your preferred method.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the Chicken Stroganoff over your chosen side. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Tenderness: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Mushrooms Well: Sauté the mushrooms until they are browned and their moisture is evaporated for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or extra mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Additional Veggies: Stir in some frozen peas or chopped bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Conclusion
Chicken Stroganoff is a comforting, creamy dish that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful meal. With its tender chicken and savory mushroom sauce, it’s an excellent choice for a cozy dinner. Pair it with your favorite side, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!