Description
This delightful dish features tender baked chicken legs smothered in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce. Perfectly seasoned and browned, the chicken is simmered in a savory blend of garlic and mushrooms, creating a flavorful meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for those who love hearty, comforting meals with a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for families looking for a delicious dinner option or for anyone who enjoys the combination of juicy chicken and creamy mushroom sauce. The recipe can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free flour, making it accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences.
Why It’s Great
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender chicken legs, savory mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
- Simple Ingredients: With common pantry staples like flour, olive oil, garlic, and chicken stock, this dish is both convenient and affordable.
- Easy Preparation: The step-by-step process is straightforward, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to steamed vegetables, allowing for a complete and balanced meal.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 lb chicken legs (about 3-4 large legs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 10 oz mushrooms, halved
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
How to Make Baked Chicken Legs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
- Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Dredge the chicken legs in the seasoned flour mixture until well coated.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs, skin side down, and cook for about 4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and brown the other side for another 3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the halved mushrooms and minced garlic. If needed, add an additional tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté on medium heat for 2 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and stir. Return the chicken legs to the skillet.
- Simmer the Chicken: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low-medium. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
- Thicken the Sauce: Remove the chicken legs and keep them warm. Increase the heat to medium-high and simmer the sauce for about 4 minutes until reduced by one-third. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Return the chicken legs to the skillet to warm them through. Serve the chicken with the creamy mushroom sauce.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of legs?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of legs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with a little cornstarch.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet before serving.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Legs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and flavorful sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, making it a great addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this meal is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the comforting flavors and simplicity of this delicious recipe!
