There’s something truly comforting about a creamy, flavorful stroganoff, and when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker, it becomes a weeknight dinner hero. This Slow Cooker Chicken & Mushroom Stroganoff recipe takes all the traditional elements of a stroganoff and infuses them with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms for a hearty and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cubed
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Cooked egg noodles, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the cubed chicken breast, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard powder into the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and all-purpose flour until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker, coating the chicken and mushrooms evenly. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes on low heat, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and mushroom stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Beef Stroganoff Variation: Substitute the chicken with beef stew meat for a classic beef stroganoff twist. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for beef, as it may require longer to become tender.
- Creamy Texture: For an even creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the sour cream.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Increase the quantity of mushrooms and add in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce for a gluten-free option.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto: Replace the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or serve the stroganoff over cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly option. Ensure the Worcestershire sauce used is sugar-free.
- Low-Carb: Similar to the keto version, opt for low-carb alternatives to the egg noodles such as shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash. Be mindful of the carb content in the Worcestershire sauce and adjust as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a flavorful alternative to chicken breast. Ensure they are boneless and skinless for best results.
Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps but cook the chicken and mushroom mixture in a large skillet or pot over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender. Then proceed with thickening the sauce as instructed.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: While you can freeze the stroganoff, keep in mind that dairy-based sauces like sour cream may separate upon thawing. If freezing, consider leaving out the sour cream and adding it when reheating the dish.
Q: Can I add additional herbs or spices for more flavor? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite herbs and spices such as thyme, paprika, or a dash of nutmeg for added depth of flavor.
Slow Cooker Chicken & Mushroom Stroganoff is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With minimal effort required and a wealth of flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with keto, low-carb, or vegetarian variations, this stroganoff recipe offers endless possibilities for delicious dining experiences. Enjoy the warmth and richness of homemade stroganoff with every spoonful!
