Chicken thighs with mushroom and cream sauce

Chicken Thighs with Mushroom and Cream Sauce

Looking for a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests? Chicken thighs with mushroom and cream sauce are the ideal solution! This classic recipe combines simple cooking aspects and accessible ingredients, transforming them into a savory dish full of flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4-5 chicken thighs (preferably skin-on for richer flavor)
- 1 jar of mushrooms (or fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons of cream (choose a full-fat cream for a creamy sauce)
- 1/2 can of tomatoes in purée (or fresh tomatoes, depending on the season)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (for frying)
- 100 ml of white wine (optional, but recommended to add depth of flavor)
- 1 carrot (grated)
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Sweet paprika (optional, for a splash of color and flavor)
- Fresh or dried basil for serving

Recipe Story:

Chicken thighs with mushroom and cream sauce have a rich history, being part of the culinary traditions of many cultures. With a combination of simple ingredients, this recipe has been passed down through generations, becoming a favorite at family meals. The aroma of mushrooms and the richness of cream turn every meal into a celebration of taste.

Step by Step:

1. Boiling the chicken thighs: In a large pot, add the chicken thighs and cover them with water. Boil for 15-20 minutes until the meat becomes tender. Then, remove the thighs to a bowl and let them cool slightly. This step not only helps tenderize the meat but also creates a delicious broth.

2. Seasoning the thighs: Once cooled, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a little sweet paprika. These spices will add wonderful flavor and intensify the taste of the final dish.

3. Frying the thighs: In a skillet, add olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and fry for 5-7 minutes until golden. This step helps achieve a crispy and delicious texture.

4. Preparing the mushroom sauce: In a separate pan, add the mushrooms (if using fresh mushrooms, clean and slice them) and the grated carrot. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is the stage where flavors develop and blend.

5. Combining the ingredients: In a wok or large pot, add the fried chicken thighs and sautéed mushrooms. Pour in the broth from the pot where the thighs boiled, enough to cover the ingredients. Let it simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes.

6. Adding tomatoes and cream: Add the canned tomatoes and mix. When the sauce is nearly ready, add the cream and stir gently to achieve a creamy and flavorful sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

7. Serving: Chicken thighs with mushroom and cream sauce are usually served with creamy mashed potatoes or pasta. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh basil on top for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

Practical Tips:

- If you want to add a touch of acidity, a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar at the end will work wonders.
- Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as champignon, porcini, or oyster mushrooms, for varied flavors.
- Vary the sides: try a fresh green salad or flavored rice to complement the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster and will be just as delicious.
- What can I do with leftover sauce? The sauce can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be used for pasta or rice.
- How can I make the recipe easier to prepare? You can prepare the sauce in advance and add the fried chicken thighs just before serving.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe contains approximately 450 calories per serving, providing a good source of protein from the chicken and mushrooms, as well as vitamins from the carrot and tomatoes. The cream adds healthy fats, and the use of olive oil contributes to a better nutritional profile.

Possible Variations:

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken thighs with tofu or seitan and follow the same steps. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for an even more nutrient-rich sauce.

In conclusion, chicken thighs with mushroom and cream sauce are a delicious and comforting choice, perfect for any occasion. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love behind this traditional recipe. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and experiment with the ingredients to create a meal that is truly yours! Bon appétit!