Introduction
If you’re searching for a comforting and easy meal, this slow-cooked chicken thighs recipe is sure to please. With tender chicken soaking up a rich mushroom gravy, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and simple. Perfect for a busy weeknight, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create this delicious meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
1 teaspoon grainy mustard
Garlic powder, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 6-7 hours (including prep time)
Yield: Serves 4
This hearty dish can be served over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, making it a versatile main course for any meal. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and simplicity of this slow cooker chicken recipe!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Wash the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help remove any excess moisture. Season both sides of the chicken thighs evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
Step 2: Make the Mushroom Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine one can of cream of mushroom soup with one teaspoon of grainy mustard and the drained can of mushroom stems and pieces. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well blended and uniform in texture.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Pour the mushroom mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly. Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the mushroom mixture, ensuring they are fully covered by the sauce.
Step 4: Set the Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook the chicken on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is thoroughly cooked.
Step 5: Broil the Chicken
Once the cooking time is complete, use tongs to carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker. Place them on a baking sheet. Preheat the oven to broil and broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the skin becomes golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Serve the broiled chicken thighs over a bed of rice or potatoes. Spoon generous amounts of the mushroom gravy from the slow cooker over the top of the chicken for added flavor and moisture.
Notes
Cooking Times
Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model. Always check the chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variations
Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to the chicken for extra flavor, such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika.
Cook techniques
Chicken Preparation
Wash and pat dry the chicken thighs thoroughly to ensure even cooking. Season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for enhanced flavor.
Mushroom Soup Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, grainy mustard, and drained mushroom pieces. This mixture adds creaminess and depth to the dish.
Slow Cooking
Layer the mushroom mixture at the bottom of the slow cooker before placing the seasoned chicken thighs on top. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This method ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful.
Broiling for Crispiness
After slow cooking, transfer the chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2-3 minutes. This step creates a crispy, golden-brown skin for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or potatoes, generously spooning the mushroom gravy from the slow cooker on top for a delicious combination.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly as they may cook faster.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade mushroom sauce or a different cream soup like cream of chicken if you prefer.
Is it possible to cook this dish in an oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 1-1.5 hours, depending on the size of the thighs.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans can be added to the slow cooker for additional flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This dish combines tender chicken thighs with a creamy mushroom sauce, creating a flavorful and comforting meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and cooking method makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners, while the rich flavors will impress family and guests alike.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Combine cooked rice, chicken thighs, cream of mushroom soup, and add vegetables like peas or corn for a hearty casserole.
Mustard Herb Chicken
Mix grainy mustard with herbs like thyme and rosemary, then use it to marinate the chicken before slow cooking for a fragrant twist.
Mushroom-Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Fill chicken breasts with a mixture of cream of mushroom soup and mushrooms, then bake for a delicious stuffed chicken dish.
Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
Shred the cooked chicken and toss it with pasta and the mushroom gravy for a creamy, savory pasta dish.
Vegetable Stir Fry
Use the mushroom mixture as a sauce for a vegetable stir fry, complementing it with your choice of fresh vegetables and protein variations.
