Introduction
Are you craving a comforting and delicious meal that is easy to make? Look no further than this creamy chicken and mushroom bake recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce to create a mouthwatering meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you are cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this recipe is a winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why you’ll love this creamy chicken and mushroom bake:
1. Easy to make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Deliciously creamy: The combination of cream, chicken broth, and mushrooms creates a rich and velvety sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
3. Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables to suit your taste.
4. Family-friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for this creamy chicken and mushroom bake:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make this creamy chicken and mushroom bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their moisture.
7. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.
9. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them.
12. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
13. Serve the creamy chicken and mushroom bake hot with your favorite side dish.
Expert Tips for Success
Follow these tips to ensure the best results with this creamy chicken and mushroom bake:
– Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, but you can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
– For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
– Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the sauce, such as rosemary or paprika, to customize the flavor.
– If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream.
– To make this dish even more nutritious, add some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the skillet when cooking the mushrooms and onions.
Variations and Substitutions
Here are some variations and substitutions you can try with this recipe:
– Instead of mushrooms, you can use other types of fungi like cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms.
– If you’re not a fan of onions, you can omit them or replace them with shallots.
– For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
– If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and mushroom bake pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
– Serve it over cooked pasta or rice for a complete meal.
– Pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.
– Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
– Accompany it with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and mushroom bake ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces like thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This creamy chicken and mushroom bake is a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms, it’s a winning combination that will please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal that will warm your soul.
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
A comforting and delicious meal featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken breasts until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook diced onion and sliced mushrooms until onions are translucent and mushrooms release moisture.
- Add minced garlic and dried thyme, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, scrape the bottom of the skillet, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot with a side dish.
Nutrition Facts
