Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff is a delicious and easy dish, featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce. It’s a perfect comfort food for cold days or a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. This recipe serves 4 people and can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes.
In this article, I will show you how to make Mary Berry’s Chicken Stroganoff step by step, with tips and tricks along the way.
What is Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff Recipe?
Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff is a variation of the classic Russian dish, beef stroganoff, which consists of thinly sliced beef cooked in a sour cream sauce. Mary Berry, a famous British cook and author, adapted the recipe to use chicken instead of beef and added some paprika, lemon juice, and parsley to enhance the flavor. The result is a creamy and tangy dish that goes well with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Other Chicken Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to love this recipe, such as:
- Simplicity in Preparation: The recipe demands basic cooking skills, straightforward ingredients, and little time to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novices and experienced cooks.
- Customizability: It allows for flexibility in the choice of chicken, mushrooms, and herbs, tailoring the dish to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of a rich, creamy sauce with succulent chicken pieces offers a comforting and satisfying dining experience.
- Family-Friendly: With its mild yet delightful flavors, this dish is sure to win over both children and adults.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 250 grams of mushrooms, sliced
- 2 teaspoons of paprika
- 150 ml of chicken stock
- 150 ml of sour cream
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff
To make this recipe, follow these steps:
Step 1: Season and cook the chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a large frying pan over high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the onion and mushrooms
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion to the same pan.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
- Add the mushrooms and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and tender.
- Sprinkle the paprika over the onion and mushroom mixture and stir well.
Step 3: Make the sauce
- Add the chicken stock to the pan and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, until slightly reduced.
- Stir in the sour cream and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer for another 5 minutes, until thickened.
Step 4: Add the chicken and parsley
- Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Sprinkle the parsley over the chicken and sauce and stir gently.
- Serve hot with your choice of accompaniment.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff?
Accompanying Mary Berry’s Chicken Stroganoff with the right side dish can elevate the meal from simply satisfying to truly memorable.
Here are some versatile options:
- Rice: A staple that effortlessly pairs with the creamy textures of the stroganoff. Opt for varieties like white, brown, or basmati for a subtle flavor contrast, or wild rice for its distinctive nutty essence and added texture.
- Noodles: A classic choice, noodles serve as a delightful base, absorbing the rich sauce beautifully. Egg noodles or spaghetti offer traditional companionship, while a dash of butter and a sprinkle of parsley can introduce an extra layer of flavor.
- Mashed Potatoes: Offering a comforting richness, mashed potatoes create a harmonious blend with the stroganoff’s creaminess. Tailor their texture to your preference, from velvety smooth to rustic and chunky, and consider enriching them with butter, cream, or a hint of cheese.
- Bread: Ideal for savoring every last drop of sauce, bread can range from a crusty baguette to soft, buttery rolls. Garlic bread, in particular, provides a crisp, flavorful edge that complements the dish’s creamy elements.
- Salad: A fresh, crisp salad contrasts the stroganoff’s richness, adding a refreshing element to the meal. Customize with your favorite greens, dressings, and toppings like nuts or cheese for a personalized side that cleanses the palate.
Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff
To ensure your Chicken Stroganoff reaches its full potential, consider these expert suggestions:
- Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cutting the chicken into even-sized pieces guarantees consistent cooking and tender results.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking the chicken in batches if necessary prevents steaming, allowing for a desirable golden sear.
- Appropriate Cookware: A spacious frying pan or skillet accommodates all ingredients comfortably, preventing spillage and ensuring even cooking.
- Fresh Mushrooms: Select fresh mushrooms for their superior texture and depth of flavor. Varieties like button, chestnut, or portobello mushrooms each contribute their unique taste profiles.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the sauce, adding a subtle tang that complements the creamy elements beautifully.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning based on the ingredients’ natural salt content and your personal preference, experimenting with additions like garlic or Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor dimension.
Variations of Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff
Tailoring the Chicken Stroganoff to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences can keep this classic dish exciting and new.
Here are some creative variations:
- Alternative Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey, beef, or lamb to explore different textures and flavors.
- Vegetable Additions: Enhancing the stroganoff with vegetables like carrots, peas, broccoli, zucchini, or spinach not only adds color but also nutritional value. Incorporate them into the cooking process with the onions and mushrooms or steam them separately for a burst of freshness.
How do I Store Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff Leftovers?
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff leftovers.
Follow these enhanced steps for the best results:
- Cooling Down: Allow the stroganoff to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can make the dish soggy.
- Airtight Storage: Transfer the cooled stroganoff into either an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag. Airtight storage helps preserve the dish’s moisture and flavor.
- Refrigeration or Freezing: Refrigerate the stroganoff if you plan to consume it within the next 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option, extending its shelf life to up to 3 months. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the dish at a later date without compromising on taste.
- Labeling: Mark the storage container or bag with the dish’s name and the date it was stored. Labeling helps in keeping track of freshness and ensures proper food rotation in your refrigerator or freezer.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff Leftovers?
Reheating leftovers correctly is crucial to reviving the dish’s original texture and flavor.
Here are detailed steps to ensure your Chicken Stroganoff tastes as good as when it was first made:
- Thawing: If the stroganoff has been frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Gradual thawing helps maintain the dish’s quality by preventing it from becoming too watery.
- Choosing the Right Container: For microwave reheating, place the stroganoff in a microwave-safe dish. If preferring to reheat on the stovetop, a saucepan is suitable. Both methods are effective, so choose based on convenience and preference.
- Reheating Process: Warm the stroganoff over medium heat on the stovetop or use the microwave, stirring occasionally. This ensures even heating and prevents the sauce from separating or the chicken from drying out.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you find the sauce has thickened more than desired, gently stir in a little water, chicken stock, or additional sour cream to bring back its creamy consistency.
- Serving: Once thoroughly heated and restored to its creamy glory, serve the stroganoff with your choice of side. This could be a repeat of the original accompaniments or something new to add variety.
Nutrition value per serving:
- Calories: 495
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 381 mg
FAQs
Can I Use Thigh Meat Instead of Breast Meat for Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff?
Yes, you can use thigh meat instead of breast meat for Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff. Thigh meat is known for its richer flavor and tenderness, making it a fantastic alternative for those who prefer a juicier texture. Just ensure that the thigh pieces are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce for Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff?
To thicken the sauce for Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes, allowing it to reduce and concentrate in flavor. If you’re looking for a quicker method, a slurry made from a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water can be stirred into the sauce. Heat until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Is It Possible to Make Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff Dairy-Free?
Yes, it is possible to make Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff dairy-free. Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream. These alternatives offer a similar creamy texture and tanginess, making the dish suitable for those avoiding dairy.
What Accompaniments Work Best with Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff?
Rice, noodles, and mashed potatoes work best with Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff, serving as the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the richness of the stroganoff, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy main dish.
Final Words
Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff is a delicious and easy dish that you can make in no time. It’s a perfect comfort food for cold days, or a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. It’s also versatile, as you can use different types of chicken, mushrooms, and herbs according to your preference. It’s also family-friendly, as kids and adults alike will enjoy the mild and delicious taste.
I hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make Mary Berry’s Chicken Stroganoff step by step, with tips and tricks along the way. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. I would love to hear from you.
Thank you for reading and happy cooking!