Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup: Easy!

Welcome to the cozy and flavorful world of chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup! If you’re searching for a dish that embodies comfort food at its finest, look no further. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup is a classic for a reason – it’s simply delicious!

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore every aspect of creating the perfect chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup. From selecting the best chicken thighs to enhancing the cream of mushroom soup and mastering the baking or skillet techniques, we’ll cover all the details. Get ready to enjoy tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich and flavorful creamy mushroom sauce. Let’s dive into the comforting and easy-to-make world of chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup!

Discover the Simplicity and Flavor of Chicken Thighs Cream of Mushroom Soup

Before we get cooking, let’s truly appreciate what makes chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup such a beloved dish. This recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together to create a meal that is both comforting and incredibly flavorful. The combination of succulent chicken thighs and the rich, earthy flavors of cream of mushroom soup is a match made in culinary heaven.

Furthermore, the beauty of chicken thighs cream of mushroom soup lies in its ease of preparation. It’s a recipe that requires minimal effort and cooking skills, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a very versatile dish. You can customize it with various vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Moreover, chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup is budget-friendly and uses pantry-staple ingredients, making it an accessible meal for everyone. Therefore, it’s a fantastic option for anyone seeking a delicious, easy, and comforting dinner.

The Enduring Appeal of Cream of Mushroom Soup with Chicken

The combination of cream of mushroom soup with chicken has been a comfort food classic for generations. Its enduring appeal stems from its simplicity, rich flavor, and satisfying nature. Cream of mushroom soup itself is a pantry staple, known for its creamy texture and umami-rich mushroom flavor. When paired with tender chicken, especially flavorful thighs, it creates a dish that is both hearty and deeply comforting.

In addition, this pairing is incredibly versatile and adaptable. Home cooks have been creating variations of cream of mushroom soup with chicken for decades, incorporating different vegetables, herbs, cheeses, and cooking methods. Whether baked, skillet-cooked, or slow-cooked, chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup consistently delivers a delicious and satisfying meal. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to provide warmth, comfort, and deliciousness with minimal fuss. Therefore, it’s a dish that continues to be passed down and enjoyed in homes around the world.

Why This Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe is Your Go-To Comfort Meal

You might be wondering, “With so many chicken recipes out there, why should I choose this recipe for chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup?” This recipe is meticulously crafted to be your ultimate guide, offering not only delicious results but also ease of preparation and maximum flavor. We’ve focused on creating a recipe that is both simple and incredibly satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

Firstly, this recipe prioritizes flavor. We guide you on how to enhance the cream of mushroom soup with simple additions to elevate the overall taste. Secondly, we emphasize juicy and tender chicken thighs. Our cooking methods ensure that the chicken thighs remain moist and flavorful, not dry or overcooked. Furthermore, we provide numerous variations and additions to personalize your chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup, making it uniquely yours.

In addition, our step-by-step instructions are clear and concise, making it easy for anyone, regardless of their cooking skill level, to create a delicious and comforting meal. Finally, we’ve tested this recipe extensively to ensure it’s reliably delicious and consistently satisfying. Prepare to make this chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup recipe your new go-to for a comforting and effortless dinner!

Gather Your Simple Ingredients: What You Need for Delicious Creamy Chicken Thighs

Before you start cooking, it’s important to have all your ingredients ready. This chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup recipe uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need:

For the Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup:

Chicken Thighs: 6-8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Boneless, skinless thighs are convenient and cook quickly. You can also use bone-in, skin-on thighs, but cooking time may need adjustment.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: 2 (10.5 ounce) cans. Cream of mushroom soup is the base of the flavorful sauce. Choose your favorite brand.
Milk or Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. Milk or chicken broth thins out the soup to create a sauce. Chicken broth adds more savory depth.
Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon. Onion powder enhances the savory flavor.
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Garlic powder adds aromatic depth.
Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon. Dried thyme adds a subtle earthy and herbaceous note.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste. Salt enhances all the flavors.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste. Pepper adds a touch of spice.
Olive Oil (or cooking spray): 1 tablespoon (or as needed). Olive oil or cooking spray is used for browning the chicken thighs (optional but recommended for skillet method).
Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish): 2 tablespoons, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness for garnish.

Optional Add-ins for Enhanced Flavor:

Mushrooms: 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms (cremini, white button, or a mix). Sautéed mushrooms enhance the mushroom flavor.
Onion: 1/2 medium onion, diced. Sautéed onion adds savory sweetness to the base.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic provides a more pungent garlic flavor.
White Wine: 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc). White wine adds acidity and complexity to the sauce (used when sautéing mushrooms and onions).
Heavy Cream or Sour Cream: 2-4 tablespoons. Heavy cream or sour cream adds extra richness and creaminess to the sauce (stirred in at the end).
Shredded Cheese: 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend). Cheese adds a cheesy layer and richness (sprinkled on top before baking or during skillet cooking).

Choosing the Best Chicken Thighs for Maximum Flavor and Tenderness

The type of chicken thighs you choose significantly impacts the overall flavor and texture of your chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup. Here’s a guide to help you select the best option:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are the most convenient and quickest cooking option. They are readily available, easy to prepare, and cook evenly. They are a great choice for busy weeknights and for this recipe as they readily absorb the flavors of the cream of mushroom soup.
Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: These thighs offer richer flavor due to the bone and skin. The skin crisps up beautifully during baking or skillet cooking, adding textural contrast. However, they take longer to cook than boneless, skinless thighs. If using bone-in, skin-on thighs, you may need to increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C).
Chicken Thigh Fillets: These are essentially boneless, skinless chicken thighs that have been further trimmed and sometimes butterflied. They cook very quickly and are very tender. They are a good option if you prefer very lean thigh meat and a faster cooking time.

For chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are generally recommended for their convenience and quick cooking time, making this a perfect weeknight meal. However, bone-in, skin-on thighs can be used for a richer flavor if you have more time and prefer crispy skin.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking Your Comforting Chicken Thighs in Cream of Mushroom Soup

Now, let’s get to the heart of it – cooking your delicious and comforting chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup! You can choose between two easy cooking methods: baking or skillet cooking. Follow the instructions for your preferred method:

Method 1: Baked Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup (Oven Method)

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Firstly, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
Season both sides of the chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Arrange Chicken and Prepare Soup Mixture

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk (or chicken broth) until smooth.

Step 4: Pour Soup Mixture Over Chicken

Pour the cream of mushroom soup mixture evenly over the chicken thighs in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake Chicken Thighs

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be bubbly and heated through.
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking and let it melt.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy your comforting baked chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup!

Method 2: Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup (Stovetop Method)

Step 1: Season Chicken Thighs

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
Season both sides of the chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear Chicken Thighs

Heat olive oil (or cooking spray) in a large skillet (oven-safe skillet preferred if baking cheese topping) over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the hot skillet in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding).
Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Searing adds flavor and color to the chicken thighs. Do not cook through at this stage.

Step 3: Prepare Soup Mixture and Add to Skillet

In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk (or chicken broth) until smooth.
Pour the cream of mushroom soup mixture over the chicken thighs in the skillet.

Step 4: Simmer or Bake Chicken Thighs

For Stovetop Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For Skillet to Oven Bake (for cheese topping): If adding cheese topping and using an oven-safe skillet, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken thighs and skillet. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat (or oven) and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy your comforting skillet chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup

To ensure your chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup is a resounding success, here are some helpful tips and tricks to keep in mind:

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts, but overcooking can still make them dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) and remove them from heat promptly when done.
Pat Chicken Dry: Patting the chicken thighs dry before seasoning helps them brown better if searing and allows the seasonings to adhere more effectively.
Sear for Flavor (Optional but Recommended for Skillet Method): Searing the chicken thighs before simmering or baking adds a layer of flavor and color to the dish. It’s a quick step that makes a big difference.
Use Quality Cream of Mushroom Soup: The cream of mushroom soup is a key ingredient, so choose a brand you like. You can also use “family size” or “jumbo” cans if feeding a larger group, adjusting other liquid accordingly.
Adjust Liquid for Sauce Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk or chicken broth to achieve your desired sauce consistency. For a thicker sauce, use less liquid. For a thinner sauce, use more.
Add Fresh Mushrooms for Enhanced Flavor: Sautéing fresh sliced mushrooms (as mentioned in optional add-ins) and adding them to the soup mixture significantly enhances the mushroom flavor.
Sauté Onions and Garlic for Deeper Flavor: Sautéing diced onions and minced garlic before adding the cream of mushroom soup base adds a layer of savory sweetness to the dish.
Deglaze Pan with White Wine (Optional): If sautéing mushrooms and onions (or searing chicken in skillet method), deglazing the pan with white wine after sautéing adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
Add Cheese for Extra Richness and Flavor: Sprinkling shredded cheese over the top (especially for baked version or skillet-to-oven method) adds cheesy goodness and richness.
Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Garnishing with fresh parsley, chives, or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness of the dish.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with seasonings. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme are essential for flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Delicious Variations: Customize Your Chicken Thighs Cream of Mushroom Soup

One of the great things about chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup is its versatility. Here are some delicious variations to customize the recipe and make it your own:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs: Increase the garlic powder or add extra minced fresh garlic. Consider adding a creamy garlic sauce variation by incorporating roasted garlic cloves or garlic confit into the cream of mushroom soup mixture.
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Thighs: Add 1-2 cups of broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) to the baking dish or skillet along with the chicken thighs and soup mixture. Sprinkle generously with cheddar cheese or a cheddar-jack blend before baking or during the last few minutes of skillet cooking.
Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Thighs: Add 1 cup of chopped frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) and 1 can (14 ounces) of artichoke hearts (drained and quartered) to the cream of mushroom soup mixture. Consider adding a creamy Parmesan topping.
French Onion Chicken Thighs: Top the chicken thighs with caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese for a French onion soup-inspired variation. Use beef broth instead of milk to thin the soup for a deeper savory flavor.
Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano to the cream of mushroom soup mixture for a brighter, more Mediterranean-inspired flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving enhances the lemon flavor.
Spicy Paprika Chicken Thighs: Add smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasonings for a smoky and slightly spicy kick. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
Mushroom and Wine Chicken Thighs: Sauté a variety of fresh mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster) with onions and garlic, deglaze with white wine, and then add the cream of mushroom soup mixture for a richer, more gourmet mushroom flavor.
Chicken and Rice Casserole Style: Serve the chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup over cooked rice or egg noodles for a casserole-style meal. You can bake the rice or noodles along with the chicken and soup mixture in a casserole dish.

Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Comforting Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but here are some delightful serving suggestions to round out your dinner and create a complete and balanced meal:

Mashed Potatoes: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious cream of mushroom soup sauce. Garlic mashed potatoes or cheesy mashed potatoes are excellent pairings.
Rice: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or wild rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
Egg Noodles: Serve over buttered egg noodles for a classic comfort food combination.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans for a healthy and balanced meal. The roasted vegetables provide a nice textural and flavor contrast to the creamy chicken.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans, peas, or broccoli for a lighter side dish.
Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken thighs.
Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or soft dinner rolls for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Polenta or Grits: Creamy polenta or grits are excellent bases for serving chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup, especially for a heartier meal.

Storing Leftover Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup

Chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup is often even more flavorful the next day as the flavors meld together. Here’s how to store leftovers properly:

Cool Completely: Allow the chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup to cool completely before storing it. This prevents condensation from forming in the container, which can affect the texture and quality.
Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled chicken thighs and sauce to airtight containers. Portion into individual servings for easy lunches or future meals.
Refrigerate: Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat Gently: Reheat leftover chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave for individual servings. Avoid overheating, which can dry out the chicken. You may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
Freezing (Not Recommended): Freezing cream of mushroom soup-based dishes is generally not recommended as the sauce can sometimes separate or become grainy upon thawing. The texture of the chicken may also be slightly affected. For best quality, it’s recommended to enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days of refrigeration.

Nutritional Information for Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup

Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup. Please remember these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approximate)
Calories	350-450
Total Fat	20-30g
Saturated Fat	8-12g
Cholesterol	120-150mg
Sodium	600-800mg
Total Carbohydrates	15-20g
Dietary Fiber	1-2g
Sugars	3-5g
Protein	30-35g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary. Using leaner chicken thighs, reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup, and skim milk can reduce fat and calorie content. Adding vegetables will increase fiber and vitamin content.

FAQs

Let’s address some common questions you might have about making and enjoying chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup.

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs are generally more flavorful and remain juicier, especially when cooked in cream of mushroom soup. Chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily. If using chicken breasts, consider using boneless, skinless breasts and reduce the cooking time, checking for doneness around 20-25 minutes (baking method) or 10-15 minutes (skillet simmer method) to avoid overcooking.

Q2: Can I make chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup is very well-suited for slow cooking. To make it in a slow cooker, season the chicken thighs as directed. Place them in the slow cooker and pour the cream of mushroom soup mixture over them. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and tender. You can sear the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker for extra flavor, but this step is optional.

Q3: Can I use homemade cream of mushroom soup?

A: Absolutely! Using homemade cream of mushroom soup will elevate the flavor of this dish even further. If you have a favorite homemade cream of mushroom soup recipe, feel free to use it in place of canned soup. You’ll need approximately 21 ounces (about 2.5 cups) of homemade soup to replace the two cans.

Q4: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: To make chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. Several brands offer gluten-free versions. Double-check the labels of all other ingredients (like seasonings and broth, if using) to ensure they are also gluten-free. Chicken thighs themselves are naturally gluten-free.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup?

A: Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to make this dish more nutritious and flavorful. Good vegetable additions include broccoli florets, sliced carrots, peas, green beans, sliced mushrooms (for extra mushroom flavor), spinach, or bell peppers. You can add vegetables directly to the baking dish or skillet along with the chicken and soup mixture, adjusting cooking time as needed for denser vegetables like carrots.

Q6: My sauce is too thick. How can I thin it out?

A: If your cream of mushroom soup sauce is too thick, you can easily thin it out by adding more milk or chicken broth. Add liquid gradually, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Simmer for a minute or two after adding liquid to ensure it’s heated through and well combined.

Q7: What other herbs can I use besides thyme?

A: While thyme is a classic and delicious herb for chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup, you can experiment with other herbs to change the flavor profile. Good alternatives include rosemary, oregano, sage, parsley, or a blend of Italian herbs. Fresh or dried herbs can be used; if using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.

Conclusion: Indulge in the Comfort of Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup Tonight!

Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making incredibly comforting and delicious chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup. From understanding the simple yet flavorful ingredients to mastering both baking and skillet cooking methods, and exploring numerous delicious variations, you are fully equipped to create a weeknight dinner sensation that your family will love. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, offering ease, comfort, and timeless flavor.

So, gather your chicken thighs, grab your cream of mushroom soup, and embark on this effortless culinary journey. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend dinner, or simply a craving for classic comfort food, your homemade chicken thighs with cream of mushroom soup is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the process, savor every creamy and flavorful bite, and happy cooking!

Ultimate Comfort Food: Delicious Chicken Thighs with Cream of Mushroom Soup

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