Easy Oven-Baked Mushroom Chicken Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful, And Simple

Making mushroom chicken in the oven is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with savory mushrooms and a rich sauce. To start, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs like thyme or rosemary. In a skillet, sear the chicken until golden brown, then set it aside. In the same pan, sauté sliced mushrooms until they release their moisture and turn golden. Add garlic and a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, then stir in cream or a dairy-free alternative to create a creamy sauce. Place the chicken in a baking dish, pour the mushroom sauce over it, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Serve with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Explore related products

Campbell's Condensed Cream of Chicken and Mushroom Soup, 10.5 oz Can

$0.97 $1.24

Fork In The Road Oven Roasted Chicken

$12.99

Kraft Oven Fry Extra Crispy Chicken Coating Mix, 4.2 oz

$3.96

Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, 10.5 oz Can

$1 $1.24

Fork In The Road Oven Roasted Chicken

$12.99

Campbell's Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup With Herbs, 10.5 oz Can

$1.48 $1.92

Prepping Ingredients: Gather chicken, mushrooms, spices, oil, and baking dish

To begin making mushroom chicken in the oven, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Ensure the chicken is fresh or properly thawed if frozen. For the mushrooms, choose button, cremini, or any variety you enjoy, and make sure they are cleaned and sliced. Fresh mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor to the dish, so take the time to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps them brown better in the oven.

Next, assemble your spices and seasonings. Common options include garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, but feel free to customize based on your taste. Fresh garlic cloves can also be minced and added for a more robust flavor. Additionally, you’ll need olive oil or another cooking oil to coat the chicken and mushrooms, ensuring they don’t stick to the baking dish and helping them achieve a golden crust. Measure out the spices and place them within easy reach to streamline the cooking process.

While prepping, don’t forget to select an appropriate baking dish. A 9x13-inch baking dish works well for this recipe, as it provides enough space for the chicken and mushrooms to cook evenly. If you prefer individual servings, smaller baking dishes or oven-safe skillets can also be used. Ensure the dish is oven-safe and lightly greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Once all the ingredients are gathered, take a moment to organize your workspace. Lay out the chicken, sliced mushrooms, spices, oil, and baking dish in a way that makes the cooking process efficient. Preheat your oven to the required temperature (usually around 375°F or 190°C) while you prep, so it’s ready when you are. Having everything prepared and within reach ensures a smooth and stress-free cooking experience.

Finally, double-check that you have all the ingredients and tools before proceeding. This includes a mixing bowl for combining the mushrooms and spices, a brush or spoon for coating the chicken with oil, and any additional utensils you might need. Prepping ingredients thoroughly not only saves time but also ensures that your mushroom chicken turns out flavorful and perfectly cooked. With everything ready, you’re now set to move on to the next step of assembling the dish.

Marinating Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs for flavor

Marinating chicken is a crucial step in creating a flavorful mushroom chicken dish when cooking in the oven. Start by selecting your chicken pieces—breasts, thighs, or drumsticks work well—and pat them dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface can prevent the seasonings from adhering properly, so ensuring the chicken is dry is essential. Once prepared, place the chicken in a large mixing bowl or a resealable plastic bag, which will make it easier to coat the pieces evenly.

Seasoning the chicken generously with salt and pepper is the foundation of flavor. Salt not only enhances the natural taste of the chicken but also helps to break down its proteins slightly, making it more tender. Use kosher salt for better control and even distribution. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity that complements the earthy flavors of the mushrooms. Aim for a light, even coating of both salt and pepper on all sides of the chicken pieces.

Herbs play a significant role in elevating the flavor profile of the chicken. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano are ideal choices, as their aromatic qualities pair beautifully with both chicken and mushrooms. If using fresh herbs, chop them finely and sprinkle them over the chicken, massaging them gently into the surface. For dried herbs, which are equally effective, use about one-third less than the fresh amount, as their flavor is more concentrated. Ensure the herbs are evenly distributed to avoid pockets of intense flavor.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a splash of olive oil to the marinade. Garlic enhances the savory notes, while olive oil helps the herbs and spices adhere better to the chicken. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly and massage the contents to ensure every piece is well-coated. If using a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though overnight marination will yield deeper flavors.

Finally, remove the chicken from the marinade before placing it in the oven. Discard any excess marinade to avoid cross-contamination. Allowing the chicken to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking. This marinating process not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also sets the stage for a delicious mushroom chicken dish that’s juicy, tender, and packed with aromatic herbs.

Sautéing Mushrooms: Cook mushrooms in butter until golden and tender

To begin the process of sautéing mushrooms for your mushroom chicken dish, start by selecting the right type of mushrooms. Button, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms work exceptionally well due to their firm texture and rich flavor. Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp cloth or brush to remove any dirt, as washing them can make them soggy. Slice the mushrooms uniformly to ensure even cooking. Aim for slices about ¼ inch thick, which allows them to cook through without becoming too soft or losing their shape.

Next, prepare your skillet by placing it over medium heat. Add a generous amount of butter, typically around 2-3 tablespoons, depending on the quantity of mushrooms. Butter not only adds richness but also helps achieve that desirable golden color. Allow the butter to melt and foam slightly, but be careful not to let it burn. Once the butter is hot, add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to cook properly. Overcrowding the pan can cause them to steam instead of sauté, resulting in a less appealing texture.

As the mushrooms cook, resist the urge to stir them immediately. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes to allow one side to develop a golden crust. This step is crucial for achieving that deep, savory flavor. After they’ve browned on one side, gently toss or stir the mushrooms to cook the other side. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and evenly golden. The mushrooms should release their moisture and then reabsorb it, leaving them with a concentrated, umami-packed flavor.

Season the mushrooms lightly with salt and pepper during the last minute of cooking. Salt draws out moisture, so adding it too early can prevent proper browning. If desired, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor profile. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. The sautéed mushrooms should now be tender, golden, and infused with buttery, aromatic flavors, ready to complement your oven-baked mushroom chicken.

Finally, remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set them aside while you prepare the rest of the dish. The butter left in the pan can be used to sear the chicken before placing it in the oven, adding another layer of flavor to your meal. Sautéing mushrooms in butter until golden and tender not only elevates their taste but also creates a luxurious base for your mushroom chicken, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.

Explore related products

Kettle And Fire Broth Mushroom Chicken Bone, 16.9 OZ

$6.58

Marie Callender's Frozen Meal, Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pot Pie, 15 oz

$3.27

Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup With Roasted Garlic, 10.5 oz Can

$1.5 $1.92

Whole Foods Market, Classic Rotisserie Chicken, Chilled

$7.99

Kettle and Fire Mushroom Chicken Bone Broth, Keto, Paleo, Whole 30 Approved, Gluten Free, 19g of Protein, Natural Source of Collagen, Pack of 6

$37.44

Whole Foods Market Pulled Rotisserie Chicken

$12.99

Assembling Dish: Layer chicken and mushrooms in baking dish, add sauce

To begin assembling your mushroom chicken dish, start by preheating your oven to the temperature specified in your chosen recipe, typically around 375°F to 400°F. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This ensures that your chicken and mushrooms won’t stick to the bottom and promotes even cooking. Choose a baking dish that is large enough to hold all the ingredients in a single layer, allowing them to cook evenly without overcrowding. A 9x13-inch baking dish usually works well for this purpose.

Next, layer the chicken pieces at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Season the chicken lightly with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning. This initial seasoning enhances the flavor of the chicken as it bakes. Ensure the chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer, leaving a little space between them to allow heat to circulate.

Once the chicken is in place, add a layer of sliced or quartered mushrooms over the top. Fresh button mushrooms, cremini, or a mix of wild mushrooms work well here. If using larger mushrooms, slice them evenly to ensure they cook through. The mushrooms will release moisture as they bake, which helps keep the chicken tender and adds depth to the dish. You can also sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper over the mushrooms for added flavor.

After layering the mushrooms, it’s time to add the sauce. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken and mushrooms, ensuring everything is well-coated. The sauce can be a simple mixture of cream of mushroom soup, a creamy garlic sauce, or a white wine and herb sauce, depending on your recipe. The sauce not only adds moisture but also infuses the dish with rich, savory flavors. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce if needed, making sure it covers the chicken and mushrooms completely.

Finally, give the baking dish a gentle shake or use a spatula to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed and submerged in the sauce. This step helps prevent any dry spots and promotes uniform cooking. Once assembled, the dish is ready to go into the preheated oven. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture during the initial baking period, then remove the foil for the last 10–15 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly. Follow your recipe’s baking time, typically 25–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.

Baking Process: Cook in oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until done

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) at least 10 minutes before you plan to bake the mushroom chicken. This ensures the oven reaches the correct temperature, allowing for even cooking. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded, as this promotes proper air circulation and even browning. If you’ve seared the chicken beforehand, place it skin-side up to achieve a crispy texture during baking.

Once the oven is preheated, carefully transfer the baking dish to the center rack. Set a timer for 25 minutes to start, as this is the minimum cooking time for most mushroom chicken recipes. The mushrooms and chicken will release moisture as they cook, creating a flavorful sauce at the bottom of the dish. Avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can cause temperature fluctuations and extend the cooking time. Instead, use the oven light to monitor the dish’s progress.

After 25 minutes, check the chicken for doneness. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding the bone if using bone-in pieces). The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. If the chicken hasn’t reached this temperature, return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking, as chicken can dry out quickly.

While the chicken finishes baking, the mushrooms should become tender and slightly caramelized, adding depth to the dish. If the mushrooms or chicken appear to be browning too quickly, loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Once the chicken is done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays moist and flavorful.

Finally, serve the mushroom chicken directly from the baking dish or transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the mushroom sauce over the chicken to enhance the flavor and presentation. Pair it with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice to complete the meal. The baking process at 375°F for 25-30 minutes ensures the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are perfectly tender, creating a delicious and hearty dish.

Frequently asked questions