Continental chicken

Continental Chicken with Rice and Cream of Mushroom Soup

Welcome to the culinary world! Today, I will teach you how to prepare a delicious and comforting dish - Continental Chicken with Rice and Cream of Mushroom Soup. This recipe, inspired by old traditions and lovingly adapted, will delight you with its rich flavors and harmonious textures. We are talking about a dish that perfectly combines succulent chicken, fragrant rice, and delicate mushrooms - all in one pan.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 6 chicken thighs (preferably upper for juiciness)
- 450 ml cream of mushroom soup (homemade for an authentic taste)
- 200 g Champignon mushrooms (fresh or canned, as preferred)
- 500 g brown rice (for added nutrients)
- Salt to taste
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Optional: chili powder for garnish

About the ingredients:

Chicken thighs are the ideal choice for this dish due to their fat content, which helps maintain juiciness during cooking. Brown rice is an excellent source of fiber and is easier to digest, making it a healthy choice. Champignon mushrooms add a distinct flavor and pleasant texture, whether you use them fresh or canned.

Recipe history:

This Continental Chicken recipe draws inspiration from culinary traditions that combine simple ingredients to create rich and comforting meals. Cream of mushroom soup is a classic base in the kitchen, appreciated for its versatility and pleasant taste.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cooking the rice:
Start by rinsing the brown rice well under cold running water. Then, cook it according to the package instructions, but make sure to cook it only halfway, so it remains firm. This will prevent the rice from becoming too soft during baking.

2. Preparing the oven:
Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal temperature to allow the chicken to cook slowly and evenly, keeping it juicy.

3. Frying the chicken thighs:
In a deep skillet, add a splash of olive oil and heat it. Add the chicken thighs and fry for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is essential to seal in the chicken's juices and enhance its flavor.

4. Assembling the dish:
In a large baking dish, pour the cooked rice, spreading it evenly on the bottom. Place the fried chicken thighs on top of the rice.

5. Adding the mushroom soup:
Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the chicken thighs. This will infuse the dish with a rich flavor and keep the rice moist during baking.

6. Adding the mushrooms:
Slice the mushrooms thinly and distribute them evenly over the chicken. They will not only add flavor but also improve the dish's appearance.

7. Baking in the oven:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 90 minutes. It’s important to check occasionally, adding a bit of cream of mushroom soup over the chicken to prevent drying out.

8. Serving:
Once the cooking time is up, remove the dish from the oven. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. You can sprinkle a little chili powder on top for a touch of spicy flavor (if you like it hot) or serve it plain to enjoy the authentic taste of the ingredients.

Useful tips:

- If you don’t have time to make cream of mushroom soup at home, you can use a store-bought version, but make sure to choose a quality one without added preservatives.
- Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter.
- Add vegetables like carrots or peas for an extra boost of nutrients and color to the dish.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, you can also use white rice or basmati, but the cooking time will vary.

- How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or herbal tea would be excellent choices to complement the meal.

Continental Chicken with Rice and Cream of Mushroom Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that brings together flavors and traditions. Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite!