Chicken stroganoff is a creamy, hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. This classic Russian comfort food features tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory sour cream sauce with mushrooms and onions While chicken stroganoff is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can take your meal to the next level
When deciding what to serve alongside chicken stroganoff, you’ll want to consider sides that complement the creamy texture and tangy flavor of the dish The ideal pairings will soak up the delicious sauce while providing contrasting flavors, textures, and nutrition
In this article, we’ll explore 12 fantastic side dish ideas to serve with chicken stroganoff. From classic accompaniments like egg noodles to creative modern twists, these recipes will help you create a mouthwatering and balanced meal.
Traditional Pairings for Chicken Stroganoff
Some traditional pairings just can’t be beat when it comes to complementing classic chicken stroganoff. Here are three time-tested side dishes that are sure to please.
1. Egg Noodles
Egg noodles are the quintessential partner for any beef or chicken stroganoff recipe. Their rich, lightly chewy texture soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully. Toss the cooked noodles with a bit of butter or olive oil before serving to coat them evenly and prevent sticking. Flat or wide noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine work great and can hold on to more of that delicious sauce.
2. Mashed Potatoes
What better to serve with a cozy, creamy dish like chicken stroganoff than comforting mashed potatoes? Russets or Yukon golds make the creamiest, silkiest mashed potatoes that pair perfectly with the sauce. For extra richness, stir in some sour cream, cream cheese, or butter when mashing.
3. Rice Pilaf
A simple rice pilaf brings a mild flavor and fluffy texture to soak up the chicken stroganoff sauce. Cook the rice in chicken broth rather than water for a deeper flavor. For a unique twist, stir in some cooked wild rice or farro for added texture and nuttiness.
Fresh Vegetable Sides
Since chicken stroganoff can be heavy, bright, fresh vegetable sides help balance the richness. Here are three great veggie pairings.
4. Roasted Green Beans
Blanched then roasted green beans make an ideal pairing, with their slightly charred flavor and crisp-tender bite. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic before roasting. For extra flavor, top with toasted almonds or lemon zest.
5. Sauteed Zucchini
Quick-sauteed zucchini ribbons or spears add minimal prep and rich nutrition without overpowering the stroganoff. Cook sliced or spiralized zucchini in olive oil over medium-high heat until tender but still crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh dill or parsley.
6. Roasted Broccoli
Roasted broccoli florets add both health benefits and a delicious caramelized flavor. Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F until browned and tender. Sprinkle with lemon juice and grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Modern and International Twists
Looking to try something new? These creative side dishes from around the globe can complement chicken stroganoff while keeping dinner interesting.
7. Cauliflower Mash
For a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to mashed potatoes, try creamy cauliflower mash. Simply pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic. For extra decadence, stir in butter, cream cheese, or sour cream.
8. French Lentils
Earthy, protein-packed French lentils offer a satisfying texture contrast to the stroganoff sauce. Cook them in broth with garlic and herbs, then drizzle with olive oil and vinegar for a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired side.
9. Garlic Buttered Spaetzle
These chewy German egg noodles make a perfect match for chicken stroganoff. Boil then sauté store-bought or homemade spaetzle with butter and minced garlic for a warming, traditional pairing.
Simple Sides to Round Out Your Meal
For easy sides that require minimal prep, try one of these simple accompaniments.
10. Garlic Bread
Warm, crusty garlic bread is pretty much guaranteed to go with anything creamy and saucy. Brush sliced French or Italian bread with garlic butter before broiling or toasting to create the perfect sauce-sopping side.
11. Green Salad
A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides freshness and crunch to contrast the rich stroganoff. Spinach, kale, or mixed greens are all great choices. Add tomatoes, cucumbers, or red onion for extra flavor and nutrition.
12. Roasted Wedge Potatoes
Crispy, edge-browned wedge potatoes make a delicious and unfussy side for chicken stroganoff. Toss potato wedges with oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 450°F until browned and tender. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Serving Chicken Stroganoff
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Prepare the egg noodles, rice, or other grains just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy in the sauce.
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Steam or roast vegetables to the perfect level of doneness to complement the tender chicken and luscious sauce.
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Chill any leftovers promptly and store chicken stroganoff and sides separately to maximize freshness and flavor.
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When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth to the stroganoff to thin and restore creaminess.
Chicken stroganoff is so versatile—it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. From starchy and comforting to fresh and healthy, these 12 options will give you many delicious ideas to add variety and balance to your chicken stroganoff meals. Experiment with different pairings to find your favorite complementary combinations!
What to Serve with Chicken Stroganoff
Traditionally in Russia, Chicken Stroganoff is served with a side of thin cut fried potatoes, which might surprise people. As Stroganoffs popularity increased around the world, the meal started to be localized and served with different starches. Here are some of my favorites;
How to Make Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
My wife is such an amazing cook, and this is her Chicken Stroganoff recipe. Its one of my favorite comfort food dinners, perfect on a cold winters night. This recipe is authentic and easy to make.
- Fry Chicken – sauté the chicken pieces in butter, set aside
- Saute Vegetables – sauté mushrooms and onions until they are soft and cooked
- Add Spices – mix in mustard powder, paprika and flour. Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute
- Pour Brandy – be generous
- Mix Together – add the chicken pieces and chicken stock
- Stir and Season – finish by adding sour cream, season with salt and pepper and serve!
There are many different versions of Stroganoff now, from Japan to Brazil, all having their own little differences. Feel free to experiment to make this chicken stroganoff recipe your own with these ideas.
- Japanese Stroganoff – served with buttered rice and parsley
- Nordic Stroganoff – add sausage to recipe
- Brazilian Stroganoff – add canned corn, ketchup, and even shrimp!
- American Stroganoff – usually served on egg noodles (like this recipe)
- Beef Stroganoff – yup, make the original recipe using beef strips
Stroganoff but with Chicken and It’s Better
FAQ
What do you serve stroganoff with?
You can serve it over egg noodles, creamy polenta, or mashed potatoes. Here’s how to make this hearty, deeply cozy dish at home using mostly pantry staples.Apr 7, 2024
What is a good side dish for chicken stroganoff?
Serve Chicken Stroganoff over egg noodles, another pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.
What do you eat chicken stroganoff with?
Enjoy with pasta, mash or rice.
What do Russians eat with stroganoff?
In the States and Russian-American restaurants, beef stroganoff is typically served with egg noodles or rice pilaf, but crispy pan-fried potatoes are the traditional Russian way to serve stroganoff.