Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff

Have you ever thought comfort food could be this easy?
Most people assume rich and creamy meals like stroganoff need hours of stovetop stirring or expensive ingredients. But what if you could toss everything into a slow cooker in the morning and return home to a warm, savory dish that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen?

Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff might just change the way you think about cozy home cooking. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of flavor—yet it’s incredibly simple and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

What Makes This Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff Special?

Print

This recipe is a creamy twist on the traditional beef stroganoff, using chicken instead for a lighter, budget-friendly option. What sets it apart is how easy it is—you just layer the ingredients, turn on your slow cooker, and let it do the work.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours (on low)
• Difficulty Level: Beginner
• Servings: 4 to 6

No fancy skills needed. Just comfort food at its best.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish delicious and creamy:

• Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless) – 1 ½ to 2 lbs
  Tip: Thighs offer a richer flavor and stay juicier.
• Cream cheese – 8 oz, softened
  Substitute: Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version.
• Cream of chicken soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
  Variation: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
• Sour cream – ½ cup
  Substitute: Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-rich twist.
• Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves – 2, minced
• Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
  Optional: Can be skipped or replaced with canned mushrooms.
• Chicken broth – ½ cup
• Salt & pepper – to taste
• Egg noodles or rice – for serving
  Alternative: Mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice for low carb.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base:
Place chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, chopped onions, garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Stir until well blended.

3. Pour Over the Chicken:
Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is mostly covered in sauce.

4. Set It and Forget It:
Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be very tender.

5. Shred or Slice:
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks or slice it into chunks. Stir to combine with the creamy sauce.

6. Serve Hot:
Spoon the stroganoff mixture over warm egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Assembly Tips and Presentation

• Noodles first: Lay a bed of egg noodles on the plate or in a bowl, then spoon the creamy chicken mixture on top.
• Add a pop of green: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh finish.
• Serving tip: Warm the plates before serving to keep the stroganoff nice and hot.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: This dish freezes well! Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Make ahead: You can prep all the ingredients the night before. In the morning, dump everything in the slow cooker and turn it on.

Recipe Variations

Want to make it your own? Try these ideas:

• Spicy Chicken Stroganoff: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy version: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar just before serving.
• Veggie boost: Add frozen peas or spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Low-carb option: Serve it over zucchini noodles or steamed cauliflower.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff is one of those magical meals that tastes like it took effort—but it really didn’t. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need something reliable for busy days, this recipe has you covered. It’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying without requiring much at all.

Give it a try and don’t be afraid to tweak it based on what you have on hand. The best part? It’s so flexible that you can make it your own every time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to increase the cooking time and check for doneness. It’s always safer to thaw first if possible.

Is this dish healthy?
It can be! Use light cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, and serve with whole grain or veggie sides.

Can I skip the mushrooms?
Absolutely. While they add a nice earthy flavor, they’re totally optional.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Stick to low heat, and avoid stirring too often during cooking. Add the sour cream last if you’re worried about texture.

What’s the best chicken to use?
Thighs stay moist and shred beautifully, but breasts work just as well if you prefer leaner meat.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough. Cooking time may increase slightly.