Description
Creamy Baked Chicken with Mushrooms
“Juicy baked chicken thighs smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese—a comforting classic!”
Ingredients:
4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
2 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Make the Mushroom Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the mushrooms until golden and softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Bake:
Transfer the seared chicken thighs to a baking dish. Pour the creamy mushroom sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 75°C/165°F) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Pair with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.
This creamy baked chicken with mushrooms is hearty, rich, and perfect for a cozy family dinner. A dish that’s bound to become a favorite!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof result. First, ensure your chicken thighs are patted dry with paper towels; this is crucial for a proper sear. When searing, do not move the chicken for the first few minutes to develop a golden crust. For the sauce, let the mushrooms cook undisturbed to release their water and brown properly before adding the garlic. When simmering the cream sauce, keep the heat medium-low to prevent splitting. Finally, use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature has reached 165°F for perfect doneness.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the delicious sauce. Serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed white rice. For a lighter option, roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple garden salad provide a fresh contrast. A crusty baguette is also perfect for mopping up every last bit of the mushroom sauce from your plate.
How-to Summary
In summary: Season and sear chicken thighs until golden. In the same pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic. Create the sauce by adding broth, cream, seasoning, and Parmesan, then simmer. Place chicken in a baking dish, smother with sauce, and top with mozzarella. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and bubbly. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but boneless, skinless breasts will cook faster. Reduce the bake time to 15-20 minutes and monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid dryness.
How can I make this dish less heavy? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still flavorful.
What other mushrooms work well? Cremini or baby bella mushrooms are excellent. For a more robust flavor, try a mix with shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the dish completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to one day. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered oven dish at 325°F or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet when searing: This steams the chicken instead of creating a flavorful crust. Sear in batches if necessary.
- Adding garlic too early: Garlic burns quickly. Add it only after the mushrooms are softened and cook for just one minute.
- Boiling the cream sauce: A rapid boil can cause the cream to curdle or separate. Maintain a gentle simmer.
- Skipping the sear: Searing locks in juices and builds foundational flavor for the entire dish. Don’t rush this step.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: These often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grate a block of cheese fresh for a smoother melt.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Chicken with Mushrooms is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luxurious cheese sauce. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that is sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious, heartwarming results.