Creamy Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms

This delicious dish features juicy chicken thighs baked in a creamy sauce with mushrooms, creating a flavor-packed meal that's both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe involves marinating the chicken overnight, ensuring each bite is flavorful and tender. The use of sweet paprika, garlic, and a cheese topping brings an irresistible aroma and taste. The creamy mushroom sauce adds richness, while the garlic imparts a subtle yet delightful kick. This meal pairs well with various sides, making it versatile and easy to customize. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a weekend feast, this recipe is sure to please. The succulent chicken melts in your mouth, while the mushroom sauce complements it beautifully. Enjoy this culinary delight with a glass of your favorite wine. Bon appétit!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 kg chicken thighs
250 g fresh mushrooms
250 g mayonnaise
250 g sour cream
100 ml heavy cream
4 cloves of garlic
Cheese (to taste)
Salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)
Oil (for greasing)

Spices and Sauces

3 tbsp sweet paprika powder
1 tbsp flour

Preparation Time

Total Time: 2 hours (overnight marination + cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the chicken thighs with sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Add salt, pepper, and paprika powder according to your taste.
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator overnight. This step allows the flavors to fully infuse into the meat.
Preheat the Oven: Once marination is complete, preheat your oven to the desired temperature, ensuring it's ready for baking.
Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs evenly in the dish.
Bake the Chicken: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Sauté the Mushrooms: While the chicken is baking, heat a pan over medium flame. Add cleaned and sliced mushrooms with a pinch of salt, sauté until they are lightly browned.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream into the pan with mushrooms. As it starts to bubble, gradually sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to prevent clumping and to thicken the sauce slightly.
Combine Ingredients: Once the chicken thighs are baked, pour the sautéed mushrooms and cream sauce over them. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle your choice of cheese liberally over the top and bake further until the cheese is melted and bubbly to desired consistency.
Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve with your preferred sides.

Tips

Substitutions: For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Enhancements: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Consistency: If a thicker sauce is preferred, use more flour or reduce with a simmer.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Protein: 35 g
Fat: 45 g
Carbs: 12 g

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or eggplant for a vegetarian twist.
Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or hot paprika for a spicy kick.
Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat cream and cheese to reduce caloric content.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with: Rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Garnishment: Fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
Beverage: Complements well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

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