Chicken Stroganoff

Chicken Stroganoff – A Comforting and Delicious Recipe

If you're looking for a quick and tasty recipe that brings a touch of comfort to busy days, Chicken Stroganoff is the perfect choice. This adaptation of the classic beef stroganoff retains the essence of the original dish but with a lighter note, thanks to the chicken. In the following, I will guide you step by step through the preparation process, sharing a few secrets to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g boneless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika
- 500 ml chicken broth (preferably homemade)
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
- 2 medium onions
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 200 g mushrooms (can be fresh or canned)
- 6 tablespoons of white wine
- 2-3 tablespoons of sour cream
- Oil or butter for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 3-4 cm. This will help the meat cook evenly.

2. The flour mixture: In a resealable bag, add the two tablespoons of flour and the tablespoon of sweet paprika. Seal the bag tightly and shake vigorously to combine the ingredients. This mixture will give a crispy texture to the meat.

3. Coating the meat: Add the pieces of chicken to the bag with the flour and paprika mixture. Seal the bag again and shake until all pieces are evenly coated. This will help form a delicious crust when frying.

4. Frying the meat: In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and fry until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. It's important not to overcrowd the pan, so if necessary, fry the chicken in batches.

5. Cooking the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, after removing the chicken, add the julienned onions and minced garlic. Cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. This will give a rich flavor to the final sauce.

6. Adding the mushrooms: Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook them together with the onions and garlic for 5 minutes. If using canned mushrooms, make sure to drain them well before adding.

7. The Stroganoff sauce: Add the white wine to the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to evaporate the alcohol. Then, add the chicken broth, the fried chicken, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5 minutes so that all flavors combine.

8. Finishing the dish: Remove the skillet from heat and add the sour cream and mustard. Stir well to achieve a creamy consistency. If desired, you can sprinkle fresh herbs for added flavor and a pleasant appearance.

9. Serving: Chicken Stroganoff is served warm, alongside sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. A simple green salad can perfectly complement the meal, bringing a touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a spicy note, you can add half a teaspoon of hot paprika to the flour mixture.
- Use fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor. Champignon or portobello mushrooms are excellent for this dish.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, yet equally tasty version.
- You can also add some green or black olives for a surprising taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and mushrooms provide fiber and vitamins. This recipe is a good choice for a balanced meal, with a moderate calorie content, varying depending on the chosen side. On average, a serving can have between 350-450 calories.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
- Yes, turkey is an excellent alternative, having a similar taste and lower fat content.

2. What other sides can I use?
- Besides mashed potatoes and rice, you can opt for boiled pasta or a serving of quinoa for added nutrients.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water before adding the sour cream.

4. Can Chicken Stroganoff be frozen?
- Yes, this dish can be frozen, but it is recommended to avoid adding the sour cream before freezing. You can add it after thawing to maintain the creamy texture.

Chicken Stroganoff is not just a delicious recipe, but also a story of comfort and family warmth. Try it, and you will discover how easy it can be to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!