Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is ready for immediate baking, which is crucial for achieving a perfectly cooked chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. Season all sides generously with salt and pepper. This not only flavors the chicken but also helps to achieve a crispy skin.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs, skin-side down, and sear until the skin is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. This step is essential for adding texture and depth of flavor to the dish.
Making the Sauce:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the Mushrooms: Incorporate the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are softened and their moisture has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes. This concentrates their flavor.
- Combine with Cream of Mushroom Soup: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the browned chicken legs back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well-coated.
Baking:
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the chicken legs hot, with the creamy mushroom sauce spooned over the top.
Serving Suggestions:
Baked Chicken Legs with Cream of Mushroom pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete meal that balances the richness of the dish.
Tips for Success:
- Browning the Chicken: Don’t skip browning the chicken legs, as it adds a significant flavor boost and texture to the final dish.
- Mushroom Choices: Feel free to use a mix of mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile. Shiitake, portobello, or a wild mushroom blend can elevate the dish.
- Adjusting Thickness: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion:
Baked Chicken Legs with Cream of Mushroom is a classic dish that brings comfort and sophistication to your dinner table. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care and cooked to perfection, can create a meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Enjoy the process of making this dish and the delightful flavors it brings to your culinary repertoire.