Description
A cozy one-skillet dinner featuring juicy chicken thighs, sweet leeks, and earthy mushrooms in a rich, creamy sauce that is perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (Choose thighs of similar size for even cooking.)
- 2 large leeks (Wash thoroughly to remove any grit.)
- 8-12 ounces cremini or button mushrooms (Slice into thick pieces.)
- 3-4 cloves garlic (Mince or thinly slice.)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley (Use a mix or either as desired.)
- 1 cup chicken broth (Use low-sodium if preferred.)
- 1 cup heavy cream (Or substitute half and half for lighter version.)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (Adds tang to the sauce.)
- 2 tablespoons butter and olive oil (Combine for sautéing.)
- to taste salt and pepper (For seasoning.)
- 1 cup dry white wine (Optional, for deglazing and flavor.)
Instructions
Searing the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium to medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
- Place the chicken in the skillet skin side down. Let them sit without moving for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden but not fully cooked through.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving some for flavor.
- Add butter and leeks, cooking until soft and sweet.
- Add mushrooms and cook until browned, allowing them to sit against the pan between stirs.
- For the last minute, add minced garlic.
Building the Sauce
- If using wine, pour it in and scrape up any browned bits. Let it bubble for a couple of minutes.
- Add chicken broth and Dijon mustard, then bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cream and thyme.
Simmering the Chicken
- Return the chicken to the skillet, skin side up.
- Lower the heat and cover loosely. Let simmer for 18-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
- Let chicken rest in the sauce for a few minutes off heat.
Finishing Touches
- For serving, finish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Serve with crusty bread, rice, or your choice of sides.
Notes
Make sure to wash leeks thoroughly and keep the cream sauce at a gentle simmer to avoid splitting. Reheats well in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 38
- Saturated Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35