Pioneer Woman Chicken Stroganoff Recipe

A steaming plate of creamy, comforting goodness awaits with this Pioneer Woman Chicken Stroganoff Recipe, perfect for gathering the family around the table.

This copycat Pioneer Woman chicken stroganoff recipe features tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce that melts in your mouth and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Ideal for busy weeknights or special dinners, the chicken stroganoff recipe balances ease and indulgence effortlessly.

Following this guide, you’ll master how to make Pioneer Woman chicken stroganoff from scratch, capturing all the cozy, rich flavors that Ree Drummond is famous for, creating a timeless comfort food classic in your own kitchen.

What Does It Taste Like?

This Ree Drummond’s chicken stroganoff delivers rich, savory flavors with incredible depth. The sauce is luxuriously creamy with tangy notes from sour cream and Dijon mustard, while Worcestershire sauce adds umami richness.

The Hungarian paprika brings a subtle warmth and gorgeous color, and the mushrooms contribute an earthy, meaty texture. The seared chicken stays tender and juicy, soaking up all those beautiful flavors.

Each bite balances creamy, tangy, and savory elements perfectly classic comfort food that feels both homey and restaurant-worthy. It’s everything you love about traditional stroganoff with a Pioneer Woman twist!

Pioneer Woman Chicken Stroganoff Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, about 680g)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Stroganoff:

• 1–1.5 lbs mushrooms, sliced (450–680g)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock (plus more if needed)
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Hungarian paprika (sweet or hot)
• 6 tablespoons butter, divided
• Neutral oil for searing (avocado oil recommended)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional for Serving:

• Egg noodles (or pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or spaetzle)
• 2 tablespoons extra butter for noodles
• Chopped pickles for garnish

Kitchen Utensils You’ll Need

• Large stainless steel pan or skillet (12-inch preferred)
• Mixing bowl for marinating
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs for flipping chicken
• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Aluminum foil
• Colander for draining pasta

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes to overnight marinating)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus marinating)
Servings: 4-6 people

How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Stroganoff: Pioneer Woman Chicken Stroganoff Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly to coat every piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight marinating yields the most flavorful results.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat your large stainless steel pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Pat the marinated chicken dry with paper towels, then sear for 3–4 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to cook through completely at this stage. Remove to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest while reserving any precious juices.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

In the same pan (don’t clean it those browned bits are flavor gold!), add your sliced mushrooms. Cook over medium to medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes until they release their moisture, the liquid evaporates, and they develop a lovely brown color. Season with salt and pepper, then remove to a plate.

Step 4: Caramelize the Onions

Add 3 tablespoons olive oil and 3 tablespoons butter to the pan. Toss in the sliced onion with a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10–15 minutes until softened and moderately browned. This step builds incredible depth of flavor.

Step 5: Slice the Chicken

While the onions cook, slice your rested chicken into strips or chunks (strips work beautifully with noodles). Save every drop of those resting juices they’re liquid gold for your sauce!

Step 6: Create the Roux

Once onions are perfectly caramelized, sprinkle ¼ cup flour over them. Stir constantly and cook for 2–3 minutes until the flour smells nutty and no white specks remain. This creates the base for your creamy sauce.

Step 7: Build the Sauce

Pour in ½ cup white wine and 3 cups chicken stock, scraping up all those beautiful browned bits from the pan bottom. Bring to a simmer, adding more stock later if the sauce becomes too thick.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Add the sliced chicken with its juices, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, and 2 teaspoons Hungarian paprika. Return the mushrooms to the pan and simmer on medium-low for 3–5 minutes until the chicken cooks through completely.

Step 9: Finish with Cream

Lower the heat to very low. Stir in ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup sour cream until fully incorporated. The sauce may look slightly broken initially but will smooth out beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for a few more minutes the sauce thickens as it sits.

Step 10: Prepare Noodles and Serve

Boil egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and toss with the remaining 3 tablespoons butter, reserving some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Plate the buttered noodles and top generously with your Pioneer Woman chicken stroganoff. Garnish with chopped pickles if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Pasta Variations Beyond Egg Noodles

While traditional egg noodles are classic, this chicken stroganoff recipe shines over pappardelle, fettuccine, or even rice noodles. For a low-carb option, try zucchini noodles or serve over cauliflower rice. Spaetzle adds an authentic European touch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

2. Protein Swaps

Don’t have chicken? This easy chicken stroganoff recipe adapts wonderfully to turkey breast, pork tenderloin, or even beef sirloin strips. Each protein brings its own character while the sauce remains the star. Vegetarians can substitute with extra mushrooms and firm tofu for a plant-based version.

3. Mushroom Medley Magic

Elevate your stroganoff by using a combination of cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms instead of just one variety. The mixed textures and earthy flavors create restaurant-quality depth that makes this the best chicken stroganoff recipe you’ll ever try.

4. Side Dish Pairings

Complement your stroganoff with roasted green beans, garlic bread, or a crisp Caesar salad. Steamed broccoli, glazed carrots, or buttered peas add color and nutrition. A simple cucumber salad with dill provides refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.

5. Wine and Beverage Pairings

Serve this Ree Drummond’s chicken stroganoff with the same dry white wine used in cooking Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work beautifully. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir complements nicely. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with lemon or iced tea.

6. Creamy Comfort Balance

Enhance Pioneer Woman Chicken Stroganoff by serving it alongside pioneer woman smashed potato, creating a perfect harmony of creamy sauce and buttery potato texture for a comforting, family-style dinner experience.

7. Garnish Game-Changers

Beyond the traditional chopped pickles, try fresh dill, chives, or parsley for brightness. A dollop of extra sour cream, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or even crispy fried onions add textural and visual appeal to your presentation.

8. Savory Meal Contrast

Pair Pioneer Woman Chicken Stroganoff with pioneer woman chicken ala king and lightly roasted vegetables, adding complementary creamy textures and fresh flavors that balance the richness of the main dish.

9. Make It a Complete Meal

Transform this into a one-pot wonder by stirring cooked noodles directly into the sauce. Add frozen peas or spinach in the last few minutes for vegetables. Serve with crusty bread for soaking up every drop of that incredible sauce!

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Stroganoff

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

The secret to incredibly flavorful chicken is patience. While 30 minutes works in a pinch, marinating overnight transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. The Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder penetrate deeply, ensuring every bite of your chicken stroganoff is seasoned throughout, not just on the surface.

2. Don’t Skip the Searing Step

Properly searing your chicken creates a golden-brown crust that adds both flavor and visual appeal. Make sure your pan is hot enough and resist the urge to move the chicken too soon. Those caramelized bits stuck to the pan (called fond) become the foundation of your rich, complex sauce when deglazed.

3. Control Your Mushroom Moisture

The key to perfectly browned mushrooms is giving them space and time. Overcrowding makes them steam instead of sear. Cook them in batches if necessary, and resist stirring constantly. Let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes to develop that beautiful golden color that makes the best chicken stroganoff recipe.

4. Temperature Control for Creamy Perfection

When adding sour cream and heavy cream, always reduce heat to very low. High heat causes dairy to separate and creates a grainy, broken sauce. Stir gently and consistently, and if the sauce looks curdled, don’t panic keep stirring on low heat and it will come together smoothly.

5. Adjust Consistency Like a Pro

Your sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still flow easily. Too thick? Add reserved pasta water, extra chicken stock, or a splash of cream. Too thin? Let it simmer longer uncovered, or make a quick slurry with 1 tablespoon flour and 2 tablespoons water, whisking it in gradually.

6. Hungarian Paprika Makes the Difference

This isn’t the place for generic paprika. Authentic Hungarian paprika (sweet or hot) brings vibrant color and complex flavor that defines Ree Drummond’s chicken stroganoff. Store it in a cool, dark place and replace every six months for maximum potency old paprika loses its punch.

7. Taste and Season Throughout

Building layers of seasoning is crucial when learning how to make chicken stroganoff. Season the chicken during marinating, the mushrooms while cooking, the onions as they caramelize, and taste the final sauce before serving. This ensures balanced, well-rounded flavor instead of flat, one-dimensional results.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover Pioneer Woman chicken stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can separate the sauce.

Common Queries and FAQs

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Pioneer Woman Chicken Stroganoff Recipe that people often ask.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this chicken stroganoff recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually an excellent choice for stroganoff. They stay more tender and juicy than breasts, and their slightly higher fat content adds richness to the sauce. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may need an extra minute or two to cook through completely.

What’s the best substitute if I don’t have white wine?

You can replace white wine with additional chicken stock plus 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white wine vinegar for acidity. Dry vermouth also works wonderfully. In a pinch, use all chicken stock, though you’ll miss some of the depth and complexity that wine provides to this easy chicken stroganoff recipe.

Can I make Pioneer Woman chicken stroganoff ahead of time? 

Yes! Prepare the stroganoff through step 9, then cool and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, reheat gently over low heat, adding extra stock or cream to restore the consistency. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. Cook noodles fresh just before serving for best texture.

Why is my stroganoff sauce watery or too thin?

This usually happens when the roux wasn’t cooked long enough or the sauce didn’t simmer adequately. Make sure to cook the flour-onion mixture for a full 2-3 minutes, and let the sauce simmer after adding liquids. If it’s already too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce, or whisk in a flour-water slurry gradually.

Can I freeze chicken stroganoff for meal prep?

You can freeze the stroganoff for up to 2 months, but dairy-based sauces sometimes separate slightly when thawed. Freeze without the sour cream if possible, then stir it in after reheating. Cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

What type of mushrooms work best in this recipe?

Cremini (baby bella) mushrooms are ideal for their meaty texture and rich flavor. White button mushrooms work too, though they’re milder. For a gourmet touch, use a mix of cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms. Avoid delicate mushrooms like enoki, which don’t hold up well to the cooking process.

How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling in the sauce?

The key is temperature control. Always reduce heat to very low before adding sour cream, and make sure the sauce isn’t boiling. Let the sour cream come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before adding. Stir it in gradually and gently aggressive stirring or high heat causes curdling.

Is there a dairy-free version of this chicken stroganoff?

Yes! Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream and sour cream with cashew cream or dairy-free sour cream. Use olive oil instead of butter. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. Nutritional yeast adds a savory depth that compensates for the missing dairy richness.

What should I serve with chicken stroganoff besides egg noodles?

This versatile Pioneer Woman chicken stroganoff recipe pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, white rice, polenta, or crusty bread. For a lighter option, try it over roasted spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Traditional Eastern European sides like spaetzle or potato pancakes are also wonderful choices.

Can I use cream cheese instead of sour cream?

While you can substitute cream cheese, it creates a different texture and flavor profile. If using cream cheese, reduce the amount to ¼ cup and add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to mimic sour cream’s tanginess. Sour cream provides the authentic stroganoff taste, so it’s worth using if possible.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water as a slurry). Serve over gluten-free pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain malt vinegar.

Why did my chicken turn out dry and tough?

Overcooking is the culprit. Remember, the chicken only needs to sear (not cook through) initially, then finishes cooking in the sauce. Use a meat thermometer chicken is done at 165°F internal temperature. Marinating overnight helps retain moisture, and using thighs instead of breasts provides more forgiveness against overcooking.

This copycat Pioneer Woman chicken stroganoff recipe proves that restaurant-quality comfort food is absolutely achievable at home. With tender, perfectly seasoned chicken, rich mushrooms, and that signature creamy sauce, you’ve now mastered how to make chicken stroganoff that’ll become a family favorite.

The beauty of this best chicken stroganoff recipe lies in its flexibility customize it to your taste, prepare it ahead for busy nights, and enjoy the compliments that follow. Now grab your apron and create some magic in the kitchen!

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