Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom Casserole

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delectable Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom recipe. Perfect for those cozy evenings when you’re craving something rich and satisfying, this dish features tender chicken legs smothered in a luxurious mushroom sauce that will have your taste buds singing. With just a handful of ingredients, this easy-to-make meal is a surefire crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort and cleanup.

I first whipped up this Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom dish for a special anniversary dinner with my husband, and it has since become a staple in our home for those hectic days when we need a no-fuss, guaranteed hit. The slow infusion of flavors from the onions and garlic into the creamy sauce adds a delightful savory sweetness that my family can’t get enough of. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making this recipe a convenient option for meal prep throughout the week. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to create a memorable meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Quick Benefits

• Juicy chicken enveloped in a luxurious mushroom sauce
• Minimal prep and cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights
• Leftovers store well for up to three days
• Searing before baking locks in moisture, ensuring juicy results

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom Casserole Recipe

• Perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or laid-back Sunday meals
• Minimal prep and cleanup for busy weeknights
• Juicy chicken enveloped in a luxurious mushroom sauce
• Savory sweetness from slow-infused onions and garlic in the sauce
• Guaranteed crowd-pleaser with kids asking for extra sauce
• Great for leftovers, stores well in the fridge for up to three days
• Versatile – substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup, add sautéed fresh mushrooms
• Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal
• Aromatic and nostalgic dish that echoes classic comfort food traditions
• Locks in moisture for juicy results by searing the chicken before baking
• Homemade touch by sautéing fresh mushrooms and adding cream to the sauce

Ingredients for Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom Casserole

Poultry

• 4 chicken legs

Sauce Base

• 120 millilitres whole milk
• 300 grams cream of mushroom soup

Aromatics

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Black pepper, to taste

Cooking Fats

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Pro Tips for Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom Casserole

For the Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom recipe, here are some pro tips to elevate your dish: Searing the chicken before baking helps to lock in moisture and flavor, resulting in juicy chicken legs. For a homemade touch, sauté fresh mushrooms with the onions and garlic before adding them to the dish, and consider incorporating a bit of cream for extra richness and depth of flavor. Additionally, consider pairing this creamy dish with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to complement the luxurious mushroom sauce and tender chicken legs perfectly. Remember to check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through—165°F (74°C) with clear juices near the bone indicates doneness.

How to Make Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Oven

Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius.

Step 2: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Combine cream of mushroom soup and milk in a bowl, whisk until smooth, and set aside.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Dry the chicken legs and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 4: Sear Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sear chicken legs on all sides until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

In the skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Place chicken legs in a baking dish in a single layer and spread sautéed onions and garlic over the top evenly.

Step 7: Add Sauce

Evenly distribute the mushroom soup mixture over the chicken and aromatics.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Place a piece of foil tightly over the dish and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 9: Finish Baking Uncovered

Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley.

Storage Tips

To store the Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom dish, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can be stored for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently to maintain the silky texture of the sauce. Adding a splash of milk while reheating in the oven or covering the dish when microwaving can help keep the chicken moist.

If you happen to run out of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or celery soup as a substitute. For an extra boost of mushroom flavor, consider adding sautéed fresh mushrooms along with the onions. If you prefer smaller portions or juicier results, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken legs in this recipe.

When serving the Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom, consider pairing it with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to complement the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Roasted vegetables such as carrots or green beans can help balance out the richness of the dish. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette is also a delicious side option to accompany this comforting meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different twist on the creamy baked chicken, you can swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. This change will alter the flavor profile slightly but still provide a creamy and comforting sauce for the chicken. To enhance the mushroom flavor further, consider sautéing fresh mushrooms with the onions and garlic before adding the soup mixture. This addition will add a more robust mushroom taste to the dish.

If you prefer a different cut of chicken, such as chicken thighs, feel free to substitute them for the chicken legs in this recipe. Chicken thighs can be juicier and offer a slightly different texture compared to chicken legs. Additionally, if you are looking to save time or do not have some ingredients on hand, you can skip the step of searing the chicken before baking. While searing adds extra flavor and color to the dish, skipping this step will still result in a deliciously creamy baked chicken with mushroom sauce.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider topping the creamy baked chicken mushroom with a crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese crust before baking. The crispy topping adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy sauce, elevating the dish even further. Serve it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the chicken and mushroom sauce.

To take the creamy baked chicken mushroom to the next level, serve it in individual cast-iron skillets or mini cocottes for a charming presentation. Top each serving with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives for a touch of luxury and elegance. Pair this cozy dish with a glass of crisp white wine or a light-bodied red to enhance the flavors and create a memorable dining experience.

FAQs for Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom Casserole

Can I use a different type of soup if I run out of cream of mushroom?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream of chicken or celery soup for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken legs for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs if you prefer a smaller portion or want even juicier results.

Do I have to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing the chicken before baking adds extra flavor and color, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Just note that the taste may be slightly milder.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear, with no pink near the bone.

Conclusion

As you eagerly anticipate the aroma of your Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom wafting through your kitchen and the delighted smiles around your dinner table, remember that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. This recipe is a testament to the fact that with a few simple ingredients and a little love, you can create something truly special for your loved ones.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out on your culinary journey, this Creamy Baked Chicken Mushroom dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. The creamy mushroom sauce, juicy chicken, and aromatic blend of spices come together to create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, don’t be afraid to experiment, make it your own, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting and satisfying meal.