This creamy chicken bake recipe isn't just a dish; it's a comforting hug on a plate. Tender chicken breasts nestled in a rich, decadent cream of mushroom sauce, baked to perfection until bubbly and golden brown – it's the ultimate comfort food. This recipe is easy to follow, even for novice cooks, and adaptable to your preferences. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners!
What Makes This Cream of Mushroom Chicken Bake So Special?
This recipe stands out because of its balance of flavors and textures. The creamy mushroom sauce isn't just your average can of soup; we build a from-scratch sauce that's deeply flavorful and luxuriously smooth. The chicken is perfectly cooked – juicy and tender – and the addition of optional vegetables adds depth and nutritional value. It's the kind of dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and wanting more.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced (or a mix of mushrooms for extra flavor!)
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream (or milk), and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
- Add the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring they're coated in the sauce.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving. Serve over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different mushroom varieties. A mix of shiitake, oyster, and cremini mushrooms would add a beautiful depth of flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with this cream of mushroom chicken bake?
This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. As mentioned above, noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes make a wonderful base for the creamy sauce.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Once cooled completely, you can store the leftover cream of mushroom chicken bake in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Keep in mind that thighs have a slightly longer cooking time, so you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
This creamy chicken bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in. Enjoy!
