If you’re in search of the perfect comfort food that combines the richness of creamy sauces, the savory kick of bacon, the earthiness of mushrooms, and tender strips of chicken, then Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Bacon & Mushroom is your new go-to weeknight dinner.

This dish is a modern twist on the classic Russian Stroganoff, typically made with beef. By swapping beef for chicken and adding crispy bacon, this version becomes lighter, faster to cook, and just as indulgent. Perfect for cozy dinners, dinner parties, or simply satisfying a craving for something hearty, this recipe ticks all the boxes: creamy, savory, easy, and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Chicken Stroganoff

This recipe is for:

• Home cooks looking for a 30-minute dinner that feels gourmet.
• Fans of creamy comfort food with rich, savory flavor.
• Families who need a kid-friendly, protein-rich dish that pleases everyone.
• People tired of dry chicken breast dishes—this one’s guaranteed to be juicy and flavorful.

Best of all? You only need one pan and a handful of pantry staples.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the key players in this creamy, dreamy dish:

Protein & Base:

• 2 chicken breasts – Sliced into strips for quick, even cooking.
• 4 slices of bacon – Adds smoky richness and irresistible texture.

Aromatics & Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion – Finely chopped for a sweet, soft base.
• 2 garlic cloves – Adds depth and warmth.
• 1 cup mushrooms – Earthy, meaty mushrooms enhance the umami of the dish.

Sauce Components:

• 1 tablespoon flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Provides a flavorful base.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce silky and indulgent.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds tang and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Enhances color and gives a mild peppery sweetness.

Fats & Seasonings:

• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the chicken after rendering bacon fat.

Garnish & Serving:

• Fresh parsley – Optional, but adds color and a pop of freshness.
• Cooked egg noodles or rice – Your starch of choice for soaking up the sauce.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To bring this comforting skillet meal together, make sure you have the following:

• Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl (optional for prep)
• Pot for noodles or rice

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Place chopped bacon in a cold skillet and bring to medium heat. Let the fat render and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside. Leave the fat in the pan—it’s pure flavor!

Step 2: Season & Sear the Chicken

Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add olive oil to the skillet with the remaining bacon fat and sear chicken until golden brown on the outside, about 5-6 minutes. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through—it will finish in the sauce later. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onion, garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the same pan. Cook over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to blend with the fat and remove any raw taste.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. The sauce should now be rich, creamy, and aromatic.

Step 6: Combine and Finish Cooking

Add the seared chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook gently for 5 more minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 7: Bring Back the Bacon

Add your crispy bacon pieces back into the pan and stir to combine. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Serve the creamy chicken stroganoff over a bed of egg noodles or fluffy rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and a touch of freshness.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicken Stroganoff

• Use chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat. They’re more forgiving and won’t dry out as easily as chicken breast.
• Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the mushrooms for extra flavor.
• If you’re low on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and skip the searing step. Just add it in when combining the sauce.
• To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt for the heavy cream (though this will alter the richness).
• Add spinach or peas for a boost of color and nutrition.

What to Serve with Chicken Stroganoff

Pairing is key when it comes to a creamy dish like this. Here are some tasty ideas:

Starches:

• Egg noodles (classic)
• Steamed rice
• Mashed potatoes
• Buttered spaetzle (German egg noodles)

Vegetables:

• Roasted green beans
• Steamed broccoli
• Sautéed spinach
• Garden salad with vinaigrette

Drinks:

• Dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
• Sparkling water with lemon
• Light lagers or wheat beers

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

• Let the stroganoff cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• You can freeze the dish, though the cream may slightly separate.
• To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Recipe Variations & Swaps

This recipe is versatile and adapts well to different diets and preferences. Try one of these twists:

Low-Carb Version:

• Skip the flour and thicken with a touch of xanthan gum or reduce the sauce longer.
• Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Gluten-Free:

• Use gluten-free flour for the roux.
• Double-check that your Dijon mustard and bacon are certified gluten-free.

Vegetarian:

• Swap chicken and bacon for sautéed tofu and more mushrooms (shiitake or portobello for meatiness).

Extra Spice:

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully and is perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

You can substitute coconut cream and a plant-based butter, though it will slightly change the flavor.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can be used in a pinch, but the sauce will be thinner. Add more flour to help thicken.

Do I need to use Dijon mustard?

It’s highly recommended—it adds depth without overpowering the dish. But if needed, you can skip it or replace it with a small amount of Worcestershire sauce.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Bacon & Mushroom is the kind of meal that makes you want seconds (and maybe even thirds). It’s rich without being overwhelming, simple to make, and deeply comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this dish always delivers.

From the first sizzle of bacon to the final swirl of creamy sauce, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. And with endless variations, you’ll never get bored.

Let’s Spread the Stroganoff Love!

Did you try this Creamy Chicken Stroganoff? We’d love to see your version! Leave a comment below, tag us in your food photos, and let us know how it turned out.

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