Chicken Stroganoff is a classic comfort food, and this recipe using cream of mushroom soup makes it incredibly easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor. This streamlined approach is perfect for busy weeknights, yet still delivers a rich and satisfying meal. Let's dive into the details!
What is Chicken Stroganoff?
Before we get to the recipe, let's understand the dish. Traditional Stroganoff often features beef, but chicken offers a leaner, more accessible alternative. The key elements are tender chicken, a creamy sauce (often involving sour cream or cream of mushroom soup), and mushrooms. This recipe focuses on the simplicity and convenience of using cream of mushroom soup to achieve that signature creamy texture.
Ingredients for Easy Cream of Mushroom Chicken Stroganoff
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or a mix work well)
- 10.75 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk or chicken broth (for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, but adds extra tang and richness)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked egg noodles or rice, for serving
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
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Create the Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or broth), sour cream (if using), Dijon mustard, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Serve: Serve the chicken stroganoff hot over cooked egg noodles or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions people have about making chicken stroganoff with cream of mushroom soup.
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! Cremini, button, shiitake, or even a combination of your favorites will work well. The flavor will vary slightly depending on the mushroom type you choose.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
While cream of mushroom soup provides a quick and easy base, you could try making your own creamy mushroom sauce using heavy cream, sautéed mushrooms, and seasonings. This will require more time and effort, but it will yield a richer, more nuanced flavor.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, you can use less cream of mushroom soup, adding more milk or broth to thin the sauce. You could also use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of regular sour cream. Finally, opt for whole wheat noodles or brown rice for added fiber.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken stroganoff ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be mindful that the sauce might thicken slightly upon reheating.
What are some side dishes that pair well with chicken stroganoff?
This dish pairs beautifully with simple side dishes like steamed green beans, a fresh salad, or roasted asparagus.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Stroganoff
- Don't overcook the chicken – it should be cooked through but still tender.
- If your sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or broth to thin it out.
- If you want a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet before sautéing the onions and mushrooms.
- Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as garlic powder or onion powder.
This easy cream of mushroom chicken stroganoff recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
