legs baked with cream of mushroom

Easy Chicken Legs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce – a delicious and simple recipe that uses just a few basic ingredients, perfect for a weeknight dinner!

The sauce for these easy chicken legs is so delicious, you’ll find it hard to resist. It’s made by simmering everything in one skillet: mushrooms, garlic, chicken legs, and chicken stock, with heavy cream added at the end. Don’t forget to season with just the right amount of salt and pepper.

I realized it had been ages since I last cooked whole chicken legs. I’m thrilled I finally did, because this recipe is one of the best ways I’ve ever prepared chicken. The result is incredibly juicy, and the creamy mushrooms are equally delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: Requires minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers maximum flavor.
• Comforting: The creamy mushroom sauce is wonderfully comforting and pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
• Versatile: Works well for a quick family dinner or a cozy meal with friends.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Small bowl
• Large plate
• Spatula or tongs

Ingredients

• ¼ cup flour (gluten-free flour can be used)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 lb chicken legs (about 3-4 large chicken legs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 10 oz mushrooms (sliced in half)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper. Dredge the chicken legs in this seasoned flour mixture on a large plate.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs, skin side down, and brown them for about 4 minutes until the skin turns golden. Flip them over to brown the other side for about 3 minutes. Remove the browned chicken legs and set them aside, discarding any overly dark bits from the oil.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. If needed, add an extra tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté on medium heat for 2 minutes.
4. Add the chicken stock to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in ¼ teaspoon of salt.
5. Return the chicken legs to the skillet.
6. Bring the chicken stock to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a low-medium simmer. Cook the chicken for 25-30 minutes, until it’s cooked through and juices run clear when cut in the middle.
7. Transfer the cooked chicken legs to a plate and keep them warm.
8. Increase the heat under the skillet to medium-high and simmer the mushroom sauce for about 4 minutes until it reduces by about a third. Stir in the ½ cup of heavy cream, simmering for another 2 minutes on low-medium heat while constantly stirring, until the sauce thickens.
9. Return the chicken legs to the skillet to warm them up before serving.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to brown the chicken well to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
• Scraping the pan after adding chicken stock helps incorporate all the delicious bits into the sauce.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially after adding the cream.

Additional Tips or Variations

Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor. You can also swap the heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half if preferred.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 480, Protein: 35g, Fat: 35g, Carbohydrates: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead? Yes, boneless thighs can be used, but cooking time may be shorter, so check for doneness sooner.

What can I serve with this dish? This chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Legs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try and share your thoughts or any creative variations you’ve tried. We’d love to hear from you!