Description
Baked Chicken Legs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
6 chicken drumsticks
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (120 ml) cream of mushroom soup (optional, for extra creaminess)
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried parsley
1 cup (150 g) sliced mushrooms
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the chicken legs dry and season them with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken legs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
Add chicken broth, heavy cream, cream of mushroom soup (if using), thyme, and parsley. Stir well to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the green bell peppers and simmer for another 2 minutes.
Bake:
Pour the sauce into a baking dish and arrange the seared chicken legs on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Thicken (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve and Garnish:
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
#ComfortFood #CreamyChicken #MushroomLovers
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preheating your oven to ensure it’s ready. Pat the chicken legs thoroughly dry with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season the chicken generously on all sides. In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken legs, ensuring they are not crowded, and sear until a deep golden-brown crust forms on each side. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
For the sauce, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they have released their moisture and begin to brown. This step builds foundational flavor. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and optional cream of mushroom soup, stirring to combine. Add the dried herbs and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 5 minutes. Finally, stir in the chopped green bell pepper.
If your skillet is oven-safe, simply return the seared chicken legs to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. If not, transfer the sauce and chicken to a baking dish. Bake uncovered until the chicken is cooked through. For a thicker sauce, the cornstarch slurry can be stirred in during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs perfectly with sides that can soak up the delicious sauce. Serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed white rice, or buttered egg noodles. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. Crusty bread or a warm dinner roll is essential for mopping up every last bit of sauce from the plate. A simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the meal.
How-to Summary
Season and sear chicken legs until golden. In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Create a creamy sauce with broth, cream, and herbs. Combine sauce and chicken in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until chicken is fully cooked. Optional: thicken sauce with a cornstarch slurry at the end. Rest before serving with your chosen sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work wonderfully and may require a similar or slightly longer baking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the sauce will be less rich and thick. For a dairy-free alternative, full-fat coconut cream is an excellent option.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Is the cream of mushroom soup necessary?
No, it is optional. It adds an extra layer of mushroom flavor and creaminess, but the sauce is perfectly delicious with just the fresh mushrooms, broth, and heavy cream.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can complete the searing and sauce-making steps, combine them in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Chicken: Skipping the step of patting the chicken dry will prevent proper browning and result in steamed, pale skin.
- Crowding the Pan While Searing: This lowers the pan’s temperature, causing the chicken to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Overcooking the Sauce Before Baking: Simmer the sauce only until slightly thickened. It will continue to reduce and thicken in the oven.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking lets the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
Conclusion
This Baked Chicken Legs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce recipe is the epitome of hearty, comforting cuisine. It masterfully combines simple techniques—searing for flavor and baking for tenderness—to create an impressive one-pan meal. The luxurious sauce, infused with garlic, thyme, and earthy mushrooms, elevates humble chicken into a truly special dinner. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently achieve a restaurant-quality dish perfect for any weeknight or a cozy gathering. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that is sure to become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire.