Mediterranean Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff
This Mediterranean-inspired twist on classic stroganoff brings a flavorful, wholesome, and comforting meal to your table. Creamy yet light, this dish combines tender strips of chicken breast, savory mushrooms, and a velvety Greek yogurt-based sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and aromatic herbs. It’s a one-pan meal that’s rich in protein and perfect for a satisfying dinner that doesn’t feel heavy.
Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or cauliflower mash, it’s a versatile recipe that infuses Mediterranean charm into a family-favorite comfort dish.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small red onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
250g (about 8 oz) mushrooms (button, cremini, or mixed), sliced
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed or rehydrated)
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp thyme (or Italian seasoning)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer version)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1½ cups baby spinach (optional but recommended)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Optional for Serving:
Cooked pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa
Lemon wedges for brightness
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
Add chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and mushrooms. Cook for 5–6 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
Step 3: Add Mediterranean Flavor
Add sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and mustard.
Stir in the chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat to low.
Add Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring constantly to avoid curdling.
Fold in the spinach and allow it to wilt.
Return chicken to the pan and coat with the creamy sauce.
Simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Step 5: Serve
Plate over pasta, rice, or grains.
Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for Success
Prevent curdling: Remove the pan from high heat when adding yogurt; stir constantly and gently warm it.
Mushroom variety: Use a mix of cremini, shiitake, or wild mushrooms for deeper flavor.
Deglazing tip: If the pan starts to brown too much, deglaze with a splash of broth or white wine before adding yogurt.
Batch cooking: This recipe doubles well for meal prep—store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Variations
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use veggie broth.
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of yogurt and Parmesan.
Low-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or sautéed greens.
Add-ins: Olives, capers, or roasted red peppers for added Mediterranean punch.
Creamier version: Substitute part of the yogurt with a bit of heavy cream or crème fraîche.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, just cook slightly longer to ensure doneness.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: You can freeze it, but dairy-based sauces can change texture upon thawing. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.
Q: What’s the best pasta for this?
A: Egg noodles, fettuccine, or whole grain penne work beautifully.
Q: Is Greek yogurt safe to cook with?
A: Yes, but it needs gentle heat to avoid curdling—always reduce heat before adding it to the pan.
Nutrition Information (per serving, without pasta)
Estimated values:
Calories: 340
Protein: 36g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 420mg
Calcium: 180mg
(Values may vary depending on brand and serving size.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff brings together the indulgence of a creamy classic and the brightness of the Mediterranean diet. Packed with protein, fresh herbs, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a well-rounded dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressive weekend meal. Customizable, nourishing, and family-friendly—this one-skillet wonder deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.
Enjoy every creamy, herby bite!