Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake: A Comforting One-Dish Wonder

Imagine a dish that combines the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms with tender, spice-coated chicken, creating a meal that’s both elegant and incredibly satisfying. This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake is the ultimate comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner you can easily prepare at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp paprika | 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin | 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp cornflour | 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tsp salt | 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed | 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil | 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 800g boneless chicken thighs, halved | 1.76 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut in half
  • 200g mushrooms, sliced | 7 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 40g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped | 1.4 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 120ml chicken stock | 1/2 cup chicken stock
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme | 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 120ml cream | 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh basil for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 170°C (fan forced) or 190°C (regular oven), which is approximately 338°F.
  2. Create Spice Paste: In a large ovenproof baking dish, mix paprika, cumin, cornflour, salt, crushed garlic, and olive oil until you have a thick, fragrant paste.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Add chicken thigh halves to the baking dish, stirring thoroughly to ensure each piece is completely coated with the spice mixture.
  4. Add Vegetables: Scatter sliced mushrooms and chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the chicken.
  5. First Baking Stage: Pour chicken stock over the ingredients and give everything a gentle stir. Sprinkle fresh thyme on top. Place the uncovered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  6. Add Cream: Remove the dish from the oven, pour in the cream, and gently stir to combine all ingredients.
  7. Final Baking: Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
  8. Serve: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Serve over hot mashed potatoes and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Quick Recipe Details

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: Approximately 420 per serving

Nutrition Highlights

A balanced meal with lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from olive oil, and low-carb vegetables. Rich in flavor and nutrients, this dish offers a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.

Pro Tip: For the best results, use fresh thyme and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the overall flavor profile of this delicious chicken bake.