Hey guys! Ever thought about adding a little cinnamon to your chicken strogonoff? Trust me, it's a game-changer! This Cinnamon Chicken Strogonoff recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, bringing warmth and a hint of spice to your dinner table. It’s easy to make and perfect for those evenings when you want something a bit different but still super satisfying.

Why Cinnamon in Strogonoff?

Okay, I know what you're thinking: cinnamon in strogonoff? Sounds kinda weird, right? But hear me out! Cinnamon adds this amazing depth of flavor that you just won't get with traditional recipes. The cinnamon complements the richness of the cream and the savory taste of the chicken, creating a harmonious blend that's both comforting and exciting. Think of it like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, cinnamon has some pretty cool health benefits too, like helping to regulate blood sugar and boosting your immune system. So, you're not just making a delicious meal; you're also sneaking in a little bit of goodness!

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this Cinnamon Chicken Strogonoff, you'll need a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s the rundown:

• Chicken Breast: About 1.5 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Onion: One medium onion, chopped.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced.
• Mushrooms: 8 ounces, sliced (I prefer cremini, but button mushrooms work great too).
• Butter: 2 tablespoons.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup.
• Sour Cream: 1 cup (full-fat for the best flavor!).
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (ground).
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional, but highly recommended!).

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It'll make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Cinnamon Chicken Strogonoff:

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will give them a nice flavor base.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it's soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until it's browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're tender and have released their moisture, about 7-10 minutes. If the skillet seems dry, you can add a little extra olive oil.
5. Make the Sauce: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds tons of flavor! Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cinnamon. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
6. Combine Everything: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the sour cream, or it might curdle. Gently return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Heat through.
7. Serve and Garnish: Serve your Cinnamon Chicken Strogonoff hot over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Strogonoff

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final dish will taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken, mushrooms, and sour cream.
• Don't Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook it just until it's no longer pink inside.
• Simmer, Don't Boil: When you add the sour cream, make sure the sauce is at a low simmer, not a boil. Boiling can cause the sour cream to curdle.
• Adjust the Cinnamon: If you're not a huge cinnamon fan, start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more to taste. If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a bit more!
• Make it Ahead: Strogonoff is often even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some fun variations and add-ins you can try:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or more mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Wine Addition: Add a splash of dry white wine to the skillet after cooking the mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to customize the flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese along with the sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Chicken Strogonoff is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Egg Noodles: The classic choice! Egg noodles soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Rice: Fluffy white rice or brown rice are both great options.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are another comforting side dish that complements the strogonoff beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce!

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

This Cinnamon Chicken Strogonoff recipe is seriously perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover chicken or mushrooms you might have in the fridge. And let's be real, who doesn't love a one-pan meal that's packed with flavor?

Nutritional Information

Disclaimer: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

• Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 25-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! A Cinnamon Chicken Strogonoff recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. The unexpected addition of cinnamon adds a unique twist to this classic dish, making it a memorable and delicious meal. Give it a try and let me know what you think! And don't be afraid to experiment with different variations and add-ins to make it your own.

Happy cooking, and enjoy!