CREAMY CHICKEN AND MUSHROOM BAKE: A DECADENT ONE-PAN MEAL

Looking for an indulgent yet easy-to-make dinner? This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake combines tender, golden chicken thighs with a rich, cheesy mushroom sauce, all baked to perfection in one dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this dish is a show-stopper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and cheddar cheese makes this dish irresistibly creamy.
• Perfectly Juicy Chicken: The skin-on chicken thighs sear to golden perfection, staying moist during baking.
• Easy Cleanup: One skillet and one baking dish are all you need.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or fresh bread.

Ingredients Needed

Chicken:

• 4 skin-on chicken thighs
• Why skin-on? The skin crisps up beautifully, sealing in the moisture and adding texture.

Vegetables:

• Mushrooms (2 cups): Earthy flavor to balance the creaminess.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a touch of sweetness.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For a subtle, aromatic kick.

Creamy Sauce:

• Heavy Cream (1 cup): The base for the luxurious sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into gooey perfection.
• Chicken Broth (½ cup): Enhances the savory depth.

Seasoning:

• Fresh Thyme (1 teaspoon): Brightens the dish with herbal notes.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) & Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors.

Cooking Essentials:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel for the perfect golden sear.
3. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Remove chicken and set aside.

2. Build the Creamy Mushroom Base

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
3. Stir in fresh thyme, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Assemble the Bake

1. Pour the creamy mushroom mixture into a baking dish, spreading evenly.
2. Place the seared chicken thighs on top, skin-side up.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chicken and mushroom mixture.

4. Bake to Perfection

1. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbling.

5. Rest and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with extra thyme for a fresh touch.
3. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Searing First is Key: Browning the chicken creates a flavorful crust and locks in moisture.
2. Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much during simmering, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out.
3. Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with Gruyère, Parmesan, or a mix for a flavor twist.
4. Extra Veggies: Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the mushroom mix for added nutrients and color.

Perfect Pairings

• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts make excellent accompaniments.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf is ideal for sopping up every last drop.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes! Boneless thighs work well, but adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes to avoid overcooking.

2. What mushrooms are best for this recipe?

Cremini or baby bella mushrooms are excellent for their rich flavor, but button mushrooms or a mix of wild mushrooms also work.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mushroom mixture and sear the chicken in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.

4. Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter alternative.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake is the ultimate comfort food—a balance of juicy chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, and cheesy topping. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for special occasions. Try it today, and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Print