Baked Chicken Stroganoff

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### **Instructions**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
1. Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about **3-4 minutes per side**, until lightly golden (it will finish cooking in the oven). Transfer to the prepared baking dish.

#### **Step 2: Make the Stroganoff Sauce**
1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about **2 minutes**, until softened.
2. Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another **3-4 minutes** until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Cook for **1 minute**, allowing the flavors to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for **2 minutes**.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until smooth.
6. Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Simmer for another **2 minutes** until the sauce thickens slightly.

#### **Step 3: Assemble and Bake**
1. Pour the creamy stroganoff sauce over the cooked chicken in the baking dish, making sure the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle the **Parmesan cheese, mozzarella (or Swiss cheese), and breadcrumbs (if using)** over the top.
3. Bake uncovered for **25-30 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

#### **Step 4: Serve and Enjoy**
– Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for **5 minutes** before serving.
– Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
– Serve over **egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes** for a complete meal.

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### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**

✔ **Easy to Make** – No need to stand over the stove for long; this baked version is mostly hands-off!
✔ **Creamy and Flavorful** – The rich mushroom sauce, melted cheese, and tender chicken create an irresistible combination.
✔ **Comfort Food at Its Best** – Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings.
✔ **Versatile** – Swap out the chicken for turkey, or make it vegetarian with mushrooms and zucchini.

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### **Tips & Variations**

🔹 **Make it Lighter** – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and swap heavy cream for milk or half-and-half.
🔹 **Add Extra Veggies** – Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition.
🔹 **Make it Spicy** – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
🔹 **Gluten-Free Option** – Skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative.

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### **Final Thoughts**

This **Baked Chicken Stroganoff** is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. By baking it, you simplify the cooking process while still getting all the goodness of a traditional stroganoff. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, delicious meal with minimal effort! 🍽️✨