Introduction
There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a creamy chicken stroganoff — especially one inspired by the legendary Mary Berry. Her version of this classic dish is everything you want on a chilly evening: tender pieces of chicken, golden mushrooms, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s elegant enough for entertaining, yet easy enough for a weeknight. And once you make it, you’ll see why it’s one of those recipes that instantly feels like home.
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Overview of the Recipe
Mary Berry’s creamy chicken stroganoff is a beloved British twist on a Russian-inspired dish. Instead of beef, we’re using juicy chicken pieces for a lighter, quicker version that still brings all that luscious flavor.
It’s a one-pan wonder — simple, creamy, and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Creamy, rich, and deeply flavorful.
- ✅ Ready in under 30 minutes!
- ✅ Comfort food that feels fancy enough for guests.
- ✅ Uses easy-to-find ingredients.
What It Tastes Like
Imagine tender chicken simmered with golden mushrooms in a sauce that’s both savory and silky. The tang from the sour cream (or cream cheese) cuts through the richness, while a splash of Dijon and paprika adds warmth and depth. Every bite feels luxurious but never heavy — it’s comfort in every forkful.
Benefits
- High in protein
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Budget-conscious meal
- Perfect for meal prep — it reheats beautifully!
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts — sliced into thin strips
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper — to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 onion — finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic — minced
- 250g (about 2 cups) mushrooms — sliced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 150ml (about ⅔ cup) chicken stock
- 100ml (about ½ cup) sour cream or crème fraîche (or cream cheese for extra richness)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley — chopped (for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring jug and spoons
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Use turkey strips or pork instead of chicken.
- Add a handful of spinach near the end for a veggie boost.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter version.
- Want a touch of luxury? Stir in a splash of white wine with the stock.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside — we’ll add them back later.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté onions until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms
Toss in the mushrooms and cook until golden and slightly reduced in size. This is where the kitchen starts to smell incredible!
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in paprika and Dijon mustard. Pour in the chicken stock, stirring to loosen any golden bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Reduce the heat, then stir in sour cream (or cream cheese). Add the chicken back in and let it simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
What to Serve With It
- Buttered noodles or rice — classic pairings!
- Creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Steamed green beans or broccoli for balance.
- Crusty bread to mop up that luscious sauce (trust me, you’ll want to).
Tips for Success
💡 Don’t overcook the chicken. It should be just tender — no dryness here!
💡 Add the cream last. High heat can cause it to curdle, so reduce the heat first.
💡 Taste before serving. Adjust the salt and mustard to your liking — that’s where the magic happens.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of stock or water to loosen the sauce.
You can also freeze it for up to 1 month — just thaw overnight and reheat slowly.
General Information
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without mushrooms?
Yes! Substitute mushrooms with zucchini or bell peppers for a different texture and flavor.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Absolutely. Add it in when you mix the sauce so it warms through without overcooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely — it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is proof that simple ingredients can create the most extraordinary comfort food. The tender chicken, the creamy sauce, the gentle heat from mustard and paprika — it’s pure happiness in a skillet.
I’m honestly kicking myself for not making this sooner! It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table smiling, plates wiped clean, and hearts full. ❤️
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