Baked Chicken Stroganoff

The irresistible aroma of baked chicken smothered in a creamy, mushroom-filled sauce makes this dish an instant favorite for weeknight dinners. Originating from a Russian classic, this baked twist offers a heartwarming meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Rich in tradition and elevated by oven-baked goodness, this version of Chicken Stroganoff adds a savory depth from sautéed onions, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Whether served over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, it’s a cozy, satisfying main course that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks

• 2 cups sliced mushrooms

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken chunks and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms until onions are translucent and mushrooms are soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

4. Sprinkle flour over vegetables, stir well, and cook for 2 minutes.

5. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly until mixture thickens.

6. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

7. Return chicken to skillet and coat with the sauce.

8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and sauce is bubbling.

9. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Baked Chicken Stroganoff: The Ultimate Comfort Food with a Modern Twist

If there’s one dish that deserves a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation, it’s Baked Chicken Stroganoff. Creamy, savory, satisfying, and wonderfully nostalgic, this baked version of the classic Russian-inspired dish is as comforting as a warm blanket on a chilly night. It’s the kind of meal that welcomes you home, fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, and brings smiles around the dinner table.

The Origins of Stroganoff

Stroganoff originated in mid-19th century Russia and was named after the influential Stroganov family. The original version featured sautéed pieces of beef, smothered in a creamy sauce made with sour cream, mustard, and broth. Over the years, this dish has evolved as it traveled across continents, taking on local ingredients and culinary styles.

In the United States, especially in the Midwest, Stroganoff has taken on a new identity as a homey, oven-baked comfort dish. Chicken replaced beef for a lighter, more budget-friendly option. The sauce often includes canned cream of mushroom soup and a generous helping of sour cream—easy, familiar ingredients that transform into magic in the oven.

Why Baked Chicken Stroganoff Is the Best Version

While traditional stovetop stroganoff is undeniably delicious, baking the dish in the oven elevates the experience in several key ways:

1. Flavor Depth: Baking allows the ingredients to meld together more thoroughly, enhancing the depth and richness of the sauce.
2. Effortless Cooking: Once prepped, the oven does all the work. There’s no need to hover over a stovetop—making it ideal for busy evenings.
3. Tender Chicken: The chicken remains incredibly juicy and tender as it soaks in the creamy sauce during baking.
4. Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

Nutritional Benefits and Customization

While comfort food often gets a bad rap for being too heavy or indulgent, Baked Chicken Stroganoff strikes a lovely balance between richness and nutrition—especially when customized to suit your needs.

• Lean Protein: Using skinless, boneless chicken breasts provides a great source of lean protein without excess fat.
• Mushrooms for Umami and Nutrients: Mushrooms add earthy depth and are rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and fiber.
• Greek Yogurt Swap: Want to lighten things up? Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for fewer calories and more protein.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Simply use gluten-free flour and soup to make this dish celiac-friendly without compromising flavor.
• Vegetable Variations: If mushrooms aren’t your thing, swap them with bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a different twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Breakdown

Though the full recipe instructions are outlined in the main post, it’s worth emphasizing how easy this dish is to execute:

• You start by browning chicken chunks to seal in moisture and flavor.
• Then, sauté onions and mushrooms to create a rich, aromatic base.
• After that, a simple roux of flour and broth is added, followed by sour cream and seasonings.
• The browned chicken is returned to the skillet, smothered in sauce, and transferred to a baking dish.
• After baking for just over 30 minutes, the result is bubbling, golden perfection.

It’s straightforward, accessible, and almost foolproof—even for beginner cooks.

Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal

Part of what makes this dish so versatile is that it pairs well with many classic sides. You can keep it cozy with carb-heavy options or lighten it up with vegetables. Here are some of our favorite pairings:

• Egg Noodles: A traditional base for stroganoff. Their delicate texture soaks up the sauce perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate comfort food combo, creamy mashed potatoes provide a soft, buttery foundation.
• Rice or Quinoa: A slightly healthier grain option that works beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Adds a pop of color and crunch that balances the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: For mopping up every last drop of that luscious sauce.

Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved

Let’s face it—feeding a family can be a challenge, especially when picky eaters are involved. Baked Chicken Stroganoff is a lifesaver in that regard. It’s creamy, mild, and familiar—three things that make kids more likely to dig in without hesitation.

It’s also easy to double for larger households or potluck gatherings. You can prep everything in advance, keep it refrigerated, and just pop it in the oven an hour before mealtime.

A Weeknight Wonder and a Meal Prep Hero

This dish isn’t just for lazy Sundays—it shines on weeknights too. You can prepare the sauce and chicken in the morning or the night before, store everything in the fridge, and then bake it right before dinner.

Leftovers? No problem. Baked Chicken Stroganoff keeps well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days and reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. The flavors even intensify overnight, making your lunch the next day even more crave-worthy.

How to Dress It Up for Company

Hosting guests but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Baked Chicken Stroganoff is your secret weapon. With just a few small upgrades, you can turn it into a gourmet-looking main course.

• Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil before serving for an elegant touch.
• Top with crispy shallots or fried onions for crunch and extra flavor.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives for a fresh finish.
• Serve in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a restaurant-style presentation.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Want to make the most of your leftovers or prep in bulk? Here’s how to handle storage and reheating like a pro:

• To store: Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.
• To freeze: This dish can be frozen, although the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• To reheat: Microwave individual servings for 2–3 minutes, or warm in a 325°F oven for 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Dietary Alternatives and Substitutions

It’s important to cater to dietary restrictions and preferences. Here are a few ways to adapt the recipe without sacrificing taste:

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sour cream or cashew cream and a vegan-friendly mushroom soup.
• Low-Carb: Skip the noodles and serve over cauliflower mash or steamed greens.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and ensure your soup base is vegetarian.

Make It Your Own: Creative Variations

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, you can get creative:

• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Cheesy Stroganoff: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan before baking.
• Rustic Herb Infusion: Add rosemary, thyme, or sage for a fall-inspired twist.
• Southwest Style: Add corn, black beans, and smoked paprika for a Tex-Mex spin.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Stroganoff is more than just a recipe—it’s a love letter to comfort food, family dinners, and uncomplicated cooking. It brings together simple pantry ingredients in a way that feels special, cozy, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re looking to recreate the flavors of your childhood or start a new tradition with your own family, this dish is the kind of meal that everyone remembers.

So don’t be surprised when your guests ask for seconds—or for the recipe. This baked version of chicken stroganoff isn’t just a delicious dish; it’s a timeless classic made even better for today’s kitchens.