Get ready for a culinary experience that will make you say, “I haven’t eaten chicken so delicious!” This top-rated chicken recipe is not only the most popular but also incredibly flavorful and comforting. Featuring tender chicken thighs and drumsticks cooked to perfection with mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sauce, this dish is a definite crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe will show you how to make restaurant-quality chicken right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (~250g/8oz each)
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks (~150g/5oz each)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 300g / 10oz white mushrooms, quartered or halved
- 2 brown onions, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 thyme sprigs (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 120ml / ½ cup dry white wine
- 700ml / 3 cups chicken stock
- 160ml / ⅔ cup heavy cream
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat the butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chicken pieces, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and brown the other side, then remove from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and soften. Add onions and garlic, cooking until translucent.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the flour to coat the vegetables, then gradually whisk in the white wine and chicken stock, ensuring no lumps form. Add the bay leaf and thyme.
- Simmer the Chicken:
- Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and let simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Remove the chicken again and increase heat to reduce the sauce slightly, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and return the chicken to the pot to warm through.
- Serve:
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley if using, and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Proper Searing: Ensure the chicken is patted dry so it sears rather than steams in the pot.
- Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer until the desired thickness is reached.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish goes wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Health Benefits
This chicken recipe is not only tasty but also offers good nutritional value. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while the mushrooms provide beneficial nutrients and antioxidants. The heavy cream adds a touch of richness, but can be moderated for a lighter version.
Conclusion
This top most popular chicken recipe brings all the warmth and comfort of home-cooked food with a gourmet touch. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a hearty meal with a sophisticated twist. Try this recipe out and see why it’s been a favorite for years!
Read Also: Twice-Baked Chicken-Stuffed Potatoes Recipe: A Delicious and Hearty Meal
