Sarah Brown
Baked chicken with cream of mushroom is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices. The cream of mushroom soup adds a savory depth to the dish, while the baked chicken remains juicy and succulent. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious results.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Chicken breasts/thighs, cream of mushroom soup, milk, breadcrumbs, butter |
| Cooking Time | 40-45 minutes |
| Oven Temperature | 375°F (190°C) |
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Serving Size | 4-6 servings |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Optional Add-ins | Garlic, onions, cheese, herbs (e.g., thyme, parsley) |
| Cooking Method | Baking |
| Texture | Tender chicken, creamy sauce, crispy topping |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, creamy, umami |
| Side Dish Suggestions | Rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or salad |
| Storage | Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days |
| Reheating Instructions | Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes |
| Dietary Considerations | Not suitable for dairy-free or gluten-free diets (unless modified) |
| Popular Variations | Adding vegetables (e.g., green beans, broccoli) or using different cheeses |
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What You'll Learn
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather chicken, cream of mushroom soup, spices, and optional veggies like carrots or potatoes
- Season Chicken: Rub chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for flavor
- Mix Soup Base: Combine cream of mushroom soup with milk or water for a creamy sauce
- Assemble Dish: Place chicken in a baking dish, pour soup mixture over, and add veggies
- Bake Perfectly: Cook at 375°F for 45-60 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and golden
Prepare Ingredients: Gather chicken, cream of mushroom soup, spices, and optional veggies like carrots or potatoes
To begin preparing your baked chicken with cream of mushroom, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. The star of this dish is, of course, the chicken. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, as they tend to stay juicier during baking. You’ll need about 4 to 6 pieces, depending on the number of servings. Ensure the chicken is thawed if frozen and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps the skin crisp up nicely in the oven.
Next, grab a can or two of cream of mushroom soup, which serves as the base for your sauce. This ingredient not only adds richness but also keeps the chicken moist during baking. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can prepare a cream of mushroom sauce from scratch using mushrooms, butter, flour, and cream. However, the canned version is convenient and works perfectly for this recipe. Place it within easy reach as you’ll be using it later in the cooking process.
Spices are essential to elevate the flavor of your dish. Gather common pantry staples like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices will be used to season the chicken before baking, ensuring it’s flavorful both inside and out. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Measure out the spices beforehand to streamline the cooking process and avoid last-minute scrambling.
While the chicken, cream of mushroom soup, and spices are the core ingredients, adding optional vegetables can take your dish to the next level. Carrots, potatoes, and onions are excellent choices, as they complement the creamy mushroom sauce and add texture. Peel and chop the carrots into thick rounds, and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. If using onions, slice them into wedges. These veggies will not only enhance the flavor but also make the meal more filling and balanced.
Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients, take a moment to organize your workspace. Lay out the chicken, cream of mushroom soup, spices, and chopped vegetables in separate bowls or plates. This preparation ensures a smooth cooking process and allows you to focus on assembling the dish without interruptions. With everything ready, you’re now set to move on to the next steps of seasoning the chicken and preparing the baking dish.
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Season Chicken: Rub chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for flavor
When preparing baked chicken with cream of mushroom, seasoning the chicken properly is a crucial step that can elevate the entire dish. Begin by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels; this ensures that the seasonings adhere well to the surface. Moisture on the chicken can create a barrier, preventing the spices from penetrating and flavoring the meat effectively. Once the chicken is dry, it’s ready for seasoning. Gather your ingredients: salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. These four spices work together to create a balanced and flavorful base for the chicken. The salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, while the pepper adds a subtle heat. Garlic powder brings a savory depth, and paprika contributes a mild smokiness and a vibrant color to the dish.
To season the chicken, start by sprinkling a generous amount of salt evenly over all sides of the chicken pieces. Use your fingers to rub the salt into the meat, ensuring it’s well-distributed. Follow the same process with the pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Be mindful of the quantity; too much paprika can overpower the other flavors, so use it sparingly. The goal is to create a harmonious blend of spices that complement the cream of mushroom sauce without overwhelming it. Take your time to rub the spices into the chicken, as this step is key to infusing the meat with flavor before baking.
The technique of rubbing the spices directly onto the chicken is essential for achieving a flavorful crust. As the chicken bakes, the spices will meld together, creating a delicious outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mushroom sauce. Pay extra attention to thicker parts of the chicken, such as the breasts or thighs, as these areas benefit from a slightly heavier seasoning to ensure flavor penetration. If you’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken, focus on seasoning both the skin and the exposed meat for maximum flavor.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider letting the seasoned chicken sit for 15–30 minutes before baking. This allows the spices to fully absorb into the meat, enhancing the overall taste. However, if you’re short on time, you can proceed directly to baking. The combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika not only seasons the chicken but also helps to create a slight crust when baked, adding texture to the dish. This seasoned chicken will serve as the perfect base for the rich and creamy mushroom sauce that follows in the recipe.
Finally, remember that the seasoning step is where you can personalize the dish to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika. For a more herbal note, consider adding dried thyme or oregano to the spice mix. However, for a classic baked chicken with cream of mushroom, sticking to salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika ensures a timeless and crowd-pleasing flavor profile. Properly seasoned chicken will make the entire dish more cohesive and satisfying.
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Mix Soup Base: Combine cream of mushroom soup with milk or water for a creamy sauce
To begin creating the creamy sauce for your baked chicken, start by selecting a high-quality cream of mushroom soup. You can opt for a canned variety or prepare a homemade version if you prefer a fresher taste. The cream of mushroom soup serves as the foundation of your sauce, providing a rich, earthy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. Once you have your soup ready, it's time to move on to the next step: mixing the soup base. In a medium-sized bowl, combine one can (approximately 10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup of milk or water. The choice between milk and water depends on your desired consistency and richness – milk will yield a thicker, more indulgent sauce, while water will result in a lighter, more broth-like consistency.
As you mix the soup and liquid together, ensure that you whisk or stir thoroughly to eliminate any lumps. A smooth, well-combined mixture is essential for achieving a velvety sauce that will coat your chicken evenly. If you're using milk, consider warming it slightly before adding it to the soup, as this can help prevent curdling and promote a more uniform texture. Take your time to blend the ingredients, making sure that the soup and liquid are fully incorporated. This step is crucial, as it sets the stage for the sauce's overall flavor and mouthfeel.
The ratio of soup to liquid can be adjusted to suit your personal preference. For a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk or water, while a thinner consistency can be achieved by adding more liquid. Keep in mind that the sauce will thicken slightly as it bakes, so it's better to err on the side of a slightly thinner mixture. As a general guideline, aim for a consistency similar to heavy cream – pourable, but with a noticeable thickness. If you're unsure, start with the recommended 1/2 cup of liquid and adjust as needed.
In addition to the milk or water, consider adding a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, as well as any other seasonings that complement the cream of mushroom flavor. Garlic powder, onion powder, or a sprinkle of dried thyme can enhance the sauce's depth and complexity. Be mindful not to overpower the delicate mushroom flavor, but rather to enhance it with subtle, harmonious notes. Once your soup base is well-mixed and seasoned to your liking, set it aside momentarily while you prepare the chicken.
Before pouring the sauce over your chicken, give the mixture a final stir to ensure that any settled ingredients are reincorporated. This will guarantee that the sauce is evenly distributed and coats the chicken consistently. By taking the time to properly mix and season your soup base, you'll create a flavorful, creamy sauce that elevates your baked chicken to new heights. With your sauce ready, you can now proceed to the next step: combining it with the chicken and preparing the dish for baking.
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Assemble Dish: Place chicken in a baking dish, pour soup mixture over, and add veggies
To begin assembling your baked chicken with cream of mushroom dish, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready when your dish is prepared. Next, take a 9x13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking. Place your chicken pieces, such as boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, evenly in the dish. Ensure the chicken is arranged in a single layer for even cooking. If using larger pieces, consider trimming excess fat for a cleaner presentation.
Once the chicken is in place, it’s time to pour the cream of mushroom soup mixture over it. In a separate bowl, combine one can of condensed cream of mushroom soup with a splash of milk or water to thin it slightly, making it easier to spread. Stir in any additional seasonings like garlic powder, thyme, or black pepper to enhance the flavor. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken, using a spatula to ensure every piece is well-coated. The soup acts as both a sauce and a tenderizer, keeping the chicken moist during baking.
After covering the chicken with the soup mixture, it’s time to add the vegetables. Classic options include sliced mushrooms, halved baby potatoes, carrots, and peas, but feel free to customize based on preference. Scatter the vegetables around and on top of the chicken, pressing them slightly into the soup mixture so they don’t dry out. If using denser vegetables like potatoes or carrots, consider parboiling them for 5 minutes beforehand to ensure they cook through in the same time as the chicken.
For added texture and flavor, sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter over the top of the dish. This creates a golden, crispy crust as it bakes. Alternatively, grated cheese like cheddar or Parmesan can be added for a richer finish. Once assembled, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture, especially if using lean chicken breasts. This prevents the dish from drying out during the initial baking period.
Finally, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes covered. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Once done, let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This step ensures a cohesive and delicious meal.
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Bake Perfectly: Cook at 375°F for 45-60 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and golden
To achieve perfectly baked chicken with cream of mushroom, the key lies in the baking process, specifically Bake Perfectly: Cook at 375°F for 45-60 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and golden. This temperature and timing ensure that the chicken cooks through while maintaining juiciness, and the cream of mushroom sauce thickens to a desirable consistency. Preheat your oven to 375°F before you begin preparing the chicken, as this allows the oven to reach the optimal temperature for even cooking. Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced to promote proper air circulation and even browning.
Once the chicken is in the baking dish, pour the prepared cream of mushroom sauce evenly over the chicken. The sauce not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during the baking process. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap the heat and moisture, which is particularly important during the first 30 minutes of baking. This step ensures the chicken cooks through without drying out. After 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to brown and the sauce to thicken slightly. Continue baking uncovered for the remaining 15-30 minutes, monitoring closely to achieve that perfect golden hue.
During the final stages of baking, keep a close eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t overcook or burn. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat. This is a critical step to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. If the chicken is browning too quickly but isn’t yet fully cooked, you can loosely tent it with foil again to prevent excessive browning while it finishes cooking.
The 45-60 minute baking time at 375°F is ideal for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, as it allows the skin to crisp up while the meat remains tender. For boneless or skinless chicken, you may need to adjust the timing slightly, as these cuts tend to cook faster. Always prioritize the internal temperature over the suggested time to ensure perfection. Once the chicken is fully cooked and golden, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist.
Finally, the cream of mushroom sauce should be thick and bubbly after baking, complementing the chicken perfectly. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk during the last 10 minutes of baking. Serve the baked chicken with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce. By following the Bake Perfectly: Cook at 375°F for 45-60 minutes guideline, you’ll achieve a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, with chicken that’s fully cooked, golden, and irresistibly tender.
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Frequently asked questions
You'll need chicken breasts or thighs, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional ingredients like mushrooms or cheese for topping.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic, onion powder, and paprika. You can also lightly brown the chicken in a skillet for added flavor before placing it in the baking dish.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbly.
Yes, sauté fresh mushrooms in butter until tender, then mix them with a homemade cream sauce (using flour, milk, and broth) to replace the canned soup for a fresher flavor.
Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a side salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for added freshness.
