Mary Berry's Heavenly Chicken Stroganoff: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction

When life calls for comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like a creamy chicken stroganoff. This timeless classic brings together tender pieces of chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, velvety sauce that wraps around each bite like a warm hug. Mary Berry’s take on this beloved dish elevates it to new heights, creating what many consider the perfect cozy dinner to warm both heart and soul.

Originating from Russia in the mid-19th century, stroganoff has evolved across continents while maintaining its essence of comfort and indulgence. Mary Berry, the beloved British baking icon and culinary expert, brings her signature touch to this recipe with perfectly balanced flavors and straightforward preparation techniques that ensure success even for novice cooks.

This heavenly chicken stroganoff is more than just a meal—it’s an experience to be savored. Whether you’re cooking for a family weeknight dinner, hosting a casual gathering with friends, or simply treating yourself to something special after a long day, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction in every spoonful.

Mary Berry’s Heavenly Chicken Stroganoff

Jowel

When life calls for comfort food, nothing hits the spot like Mary Berry's creamy chicken stroganoff! This recipe is the perfect cozy dinner to warm your heart and soul.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course CHICKEN

Cuisine European

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts cut into small pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion finely chopped
250 g / 9 oz mushrooms sliced
2 teaspoons paprika
150 ml / ⅔ cup chicken stock
150 ml / ⅔ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley choppe

Keyword chicken stroganoff, comfort food, creamy chicken dish, easy dinner recipe, Mary Berry recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why Mary Berry’s Chicken Stroganoff has earned its place in the hearts and recipe collections of home cooks worldwide:

Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and tangy sour cream creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Achievable Elegance: Despite its sophisticated taste, this stroganoff is remarkably straightforward to prepare.
Versatile Pairing Options: Serves beautifully with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors actually develop further when made ahead, making it perfect for meal planning.
Crowd Pleaser: Appeals to both picky eaters and gourmet food lovers alike.
Comforting Without Being Heavy: Offers that sought-after comfort food feeling without leaving you uncomfortably full.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication, making it suitable for both everyday dining and special occasions. The depth of flavor achieved in relatively little time is what makes Mary Berry’s version truly stand out among stroganoff recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delectable chicken stroganoff, gather the following ingredients (with both UK and US measurements for convenience):

For the Chicken and Sauce:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 600g/1.3 lbs), cut into small pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion (approximately 150g/5 oz), finely chopped
250g/9 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work beautifully)
2 teaspoons paprika (sweet Hungarian paprika is ideal)
150ml/⅔ cup chicken stock (preferably low-sodium)
150ml/⅔ cup sour cream (full-fat provides the best texture)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish

Optional Enhancements:

1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon brandy or white wine
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Recommended Side Dishes:

Fluffy white rice or buttered egg noodles
Crusty artisan bread
Steamed green vegetables such as broccoli or green beans

Kitchen Equipment Required

To prepare this stroganoff with ease, you’ll need:

Large skillet or frying pan (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Small bowl for mixing sour cream mixture
Serving dish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your perfect chicken stroganoff:

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if necessary). Cook for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 75°C/165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan using a slotted spoon and set aside on a warm plate, loosely covered with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Reduce the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion to the same pan, utilizing the flavorful fond (browned bits) left from cooking the chicken. Cook the onion for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes until they have released their moisture and are nicely browned. This caramelization process is crucial for developing the deep, rich flavor that makes this stroganoff exceptional.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle the paprika over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spice without burning it. This briefly toasting step awakens the paprika’s flavor compounds and adds significant depth to your sauce.

Pour in the chicken stock, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer and let it reduce by about one-third, approximately 5 minutes. This concentration of flavors forms the foundation of your stroganoff sauce.

Step 4: Add the Creamy Element

In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and lemon juice, whisking together until smooth. This pre-mixing helps prevent curdling. Reduce the heat to low, then gradually add the sour cream mixture to the pan, stirring constantly. Do not allow the sauce to boil after adding the sour cream, as this can cause separation.

Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that flavors will continue to develop as the dish comes together.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan, gently folding them into the creamy sauce to ensure each piece is well-coated. Allow everything to heat through for approximately 2-3 minutes on low heat.

Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, reserving a small amount for garnish. The parsley adds a fresh, bright note that beautifully complements the rich, creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the finished stroganoff to a warmed serving dish. Garnish with the remaining chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside your chosen accompaniment—whether that’s fluffy rice, buttered noodles, or crusty bread for mopping up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Mary Berry’s Chicken Stroganoff pairs beautifully with several accompaniments:

Traditional Pairings:

Buttered Egg Noodles: The classic choice that allows the creamy sauce to cling to each strand.
Steamed Rice: A simple, fluffy white rice provides the perfect canvas for the flavorful sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create an ultimate comfort food experience.

Vegetable Sides:

Steamed Green Beans: Their bright flavor and slight crunch offer a pleasant contrast.
Roasted Asparagus: The caramelized notes complement the earthy mushrooms.
Simple Green Salad: A light, vinaigrette-dressed salad balances the richness of the stroganoff.

Beverage Pairings:

Wine: A medium-bodied Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay pairs excellently.
Beer: A Belgian-style ale or amber lager complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.
Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a twist of lemon refreshes the palate between bites.

For a complete dining experience, consider starting with a light appetizer such as a clear soup or simple salad to prepare the palate for the rich main course.

Nutritional Information

While this dish is undoubtedly an indulgence, here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assumes 4 servings total):

Calories: Approximately 320-350 per serving
Protein: 28-30g
Carbohydrates: 7-9g
Fat: 20-22g
Fiber: 1-2g
Sodium: 320-350mg (varies based on stock used)

Please note that these values are estimates and do not include any side dishes or accompaniments. For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream.

Expert Tips for Perfect Stroganoff

To elevate your stroganoff from good to extraordinary, consider these professional tips:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking for more even browning.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than browning, robbing your dish of potential flavor.
Mushroom Variety: While the recipe calls for button or cremini mushrooms, a mixture of wild mushrooms can add incredible depth of flavor. Consider adding some shiitake, oyster, or porcini mushrooms to the mix.
Fond Development: Those browned bits at the bottom of the pan after cooking the chicken contain concentrated flavor compounds. Be sure to scrape them up when adding the stock.
Gentle Heat After Adding Sour Cream: Keep the temperature low after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling. Never allow the sauce to boil at this stage.
Rest Before Serving: Allowing the finished stroganoff to rest for 5 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Fresh Herbs Matter: While dried herbs can work in a pinch, the bright flavor of fresh parsley makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.

For more amazing recipes, be sure to check out our other sections to explore a variety of ideas that will enrich your cooking experience. Each section offers its own unique flavors to ensure a delightful culinary journey:

Easy and Quick Recipes: A collection of dishes that guarantee delicious meals with minimal effort and time.
Healthy Recipes: Discover healthy and delicious options that fit your lifestyle.
Desserts: A diverse selection of sweets that will add a special touch of sweetness to your table.
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Dinner Recipes: Delicious and easy-to-make recipes that will make your dinner a memorable occasion.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, many find that stroganoff tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. Prepare through step 5, cool completely, and refrigerate in an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of stock if the sauce has thickened too much. Add the fresh parsley just before serving.

My sauce curdled. What happened?

Curdling typically occurs when the sour cream is added to a mixture that’s too hot or when the sauce boils after adding the sour cream. To prevent this, ensure the pan is only on low heat when adding the sour cream mixture, and never allow it to boil afterward.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While possible, cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen and thawed. If you choose to freeze, cool completely first and store in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, whisking to recombine if necessary.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and often provide more flavor and moisture. The cooking time may be slightly longer to ensure they’re fully cooked.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To reduce calories, consider using light sour cream or a mixture of Greek yogurt and sour cream. You can also increase the ratio of mushrooms to chicken for a more vegetable-forward dish.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

While fresh is preferred for its bright flavor, dried parsley can be substituted at a ratio of 1 teaspoon dried for 1 tablespoon fresh. Alternatively, fresh dill or chives make excellent substitutions.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, consider these delicious variations:

Beef Stroganoff

Replace the chicken with 600g/1.3 lbs of beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced across the grain. Cook for less time—about 2-3 minutes per side—until just medium-rare, as it will continue cooking when returned to the sauce.

Vegetarian Mushroom Stroganoff

Omit the chicken and double the mushrooms, using a variety of types for maximum flavor. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Consider adding 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika for additional depth.

Elegant Dinner Party Version

Add 2 tablespoons of brandy or cognac after sautéing the mushrooms, allowing it to reduce before adding the stock. Finish with a tablespoon of truffle oil and garnish with fresh chives in addition to parsley.

Dairy-Free Alternative

Replace the sour cream with cashew cream (blend 1 cup soaked cashews with 1/2 cup water until smooth) and add 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast for umami flavor.

The History Behind Stroganoff

The stroganoff dish has a fascinating history dating back to mid-19th century Russia. It’s named after Count Pavel Alexandrovich Stroganov, a member of an influential Russian family. The dish was created by his French chef and originally featured beef, not chicken.

Traditional beef stroganoff became popular in Russian households and eventually spread throughout Europe and beyond during Russian emigration following the Russian Revolution. The recipe has evolved significantly across different cultures, with the American version typically including mushrooms and sour cream, which are now considered standard components.

Mary Berry’s chicken adaptation represents a modern, approachable version that maintains the soul of the original dish while making it more suitable for everyday cooking. Her version has become particularly beloved in the UK following her demonstrations of the recipe on various cooking programs.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of Mary Berry’s Chicken Stroganoff lies in its thoughtful balance of techniques and ingredients:

Building Layers of Flavor: By using the same pan throughout the cooking process, flavors build upon one another, creating remarkable depth.
Proper Browning: Taking the time to properly brown both the chicken and mushrooms creates rich umami compounds that form the foundation of the dish.
Balanced Acidity: The touch of lemon juice cuts through the richness of the sour cream, creating a perfectly balanced sauce.
Simplified Technique: Mary Berry has streamlined the traditional recipe without sacrificing flavor, making this complex-tasting dish achievable for home cooks.
Quality Ingredients: Using full-fat sour cream and fresh herbs ensures the best possible flavor and texture in the final dish.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Heavenly Chicken Stroganoff stands as a testament to how comfort food can be both elegantly simple and profoundly satisfying. This recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special—a dish that nourishes both body and soul.

Whether you’re cooking for family on a weeknight or hosting a dinner party, this stroganoff delivers reliably delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and silky sauce creates a memorable meal that deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.

So the next time life calls for comfort food, answer with this exceptional stroganoff. Your taste buds—and anyone lucky enough to share your table—will thank you.

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