Introduction (short)
Mary Berry’s Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is a comforting classic that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is simple to prepare yet full of flavor — a true crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
4 chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
250g / 9 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 teaspoons paprika
150ml / ⅔ cup chicken broth (or stock)
150ml / ⅔ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Lower the heat to medium, add the chopped onion, and cook for about 10 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for another 10 minutes until browned.
Stir in the paprika to coat the vegetables evenly.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits.
Simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Mix in the sour cream and lemon juice, then season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir gently to coat with the sauce.
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve immediately.
How to Make
Start by preparing all your ingredients — chop the onions, slice the mushrooms, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the chicken first to lock in the juices, then remove it so it doesn’t overcook while making the sauce.
Cook the onions and mushrooms slowly to bring out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Add paprika for a warm, smoky taste.
Finish the sauce with broth, sour cream, and lemon juice for that signature creamy tang.
Recombine everything at the end so the chicken absorbs the flavors from the sauce.
Variations
Beef Stroganoff: Replace chicken with thinly sliced beef strips for a traditional twist.
Vegetarian Version: Use mushrooms only, or add tofu or seitan instead of meat.
Extra Creamy: Add 1–2 tablespoons of cream cheese for a thicker, richer sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for extra warmth.
Herbal Touch: Mix in fresh thyme or dill for a fragrant, garden-fresh aroma.
Tips
Use a mix of mushrooms (like button, cremini, or chestnut) for a deeper flavor.
Don’t boil the sauce after adding sour cream — gentle heat keeps it smooth and prevents curdling.
Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end; a touch of lemon juice brightens the sauce perfectly.
Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for the best texture.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and gently reheated over low heat.
Conclusion (short)
Mary Berry’s Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is a timeless, comforting dish that delivers rich flavor and creamy perfection in every bite. Whether for a weekday dinner or a special gathering, it’s a recipe that never disappoints and always brings smiles to the table.