Here is your complete recipe guide for **Baked Legs with Cream of Mushroom**, fully organized and formatted clearly for easy reading—without any wide lines:
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### **Introduction**
Baked Legs with Cream of Mushroom is a savory, satisfying dish featuring tender chicken legs baked in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. It’s simple to prepare, packed with comforting flavor, and makes an ideal weeknight dinner or family-style meal.
### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Cream-based meat dishes became popular in mid-20th century America with the rise of canned soups as quick, flavorful cooking aids. This dish reflects a blend of traditional roasting methods and the convenience culture of the post-war era. It’s rooted in American home cooking and continues to be a go-to for hearty, oven-baked meals.
### **Ingredients Quantity** *(Serves 4–6)*
* 6 chicken legs (drumsticks or thighs, bone-in, skin-on)
* 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
* 1/3 cup milk or heavy cream
* 1 tsp garlic powder
* 1 tsp onion powder
* 1/2 tsp paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
* Optional: 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
### **Optional Additions**
* Fresh mushrooms sautéed and added for depth
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for added richness
* Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
* A splash of white wine in the sauce
* Substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup for variety
### **Tips for Success**
* Pat chicken dry before seasoning for a crispy skin.
* Sear the legs briefly before baking for extra flavor and texture.
* Use a baking dish that holds the chicken snugly so the sauce covers well.
* Stir or spoon sauce over the chicken halfway through baking for even coating.
* Let rest before serving so the juices redistribute.
### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat oven** to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Season chicken legs** with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. **Optional sear:** Heat oil in a skillet and brown chicken legs 2–3 minutes per side.
4. **Mix sauce:** In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup with milk or cream. Stir until smooth.
5. **Assemble:** Place chicken legs in a baking dish. Pour sauce evenly over the top. Add optional mushrooms if using.
6. **Bake uncovered** for 40–50 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature and skin is golden.
7. **Serve hot** with rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.
### **Description**
This dish features juicy, well-seasoned chicken legs baked to perfection in a creamy, savory mushroom sauce. The sauce is velvety and full of flavor, soaking into every bite of the tender chicken and making it ideal for pairing with starchy sides that soak up the richness.
### **Nutritional Information** *(Per serving, based on 6 servings)*
* Calories: \~290
* Protein: 23g
* Fat: 18g
* Carbohydrates: 6g
* Sugars: 2g
* Sodium: \~620mg
* Can be modified for dairy-free or lower-sodium diets
### **Conclusion and Recommendation**
Baked Legs with Cream of Mushroom is an easy, dependable meal that delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort. It’s great for busy nights, meal prepping, or serving guests without fuss. With a few pantry staples, you can create a deeply flavorful dish that feels both classic and homey.
### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
This dish proves that indulgence can still be mindful. Using lean chicken legs, a controlled amount of creamy soup, and the option to add fresh vegetables or herbs, you can tailor it to fit a balanced lifestyle. It satisfies cravings for richness while keeping preparation wholesome and grounded in real ingredients.
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