Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Legs
- Rinse the chicken legs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
- Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken legs, making sure to coat them evenly. This step infuses the meat with flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor and a golden exterior:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken legs for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned.
- Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with milk.
- Stir in the minced garlic. If you like, add sliced mushrooms for extra texture.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken legs, making sure each piece is partially submerged in the sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes to allow the chicken skin to crisp and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top for a touch of color and aroma.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Legs
- Avoid overcooking: Chicken legs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooking will dry out the meat.
- Extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight.
- Creamy variation: For a richer sauce, add 1/4 cup heavy cream before baking.
Baked Legs with Cream of Mushroom is a simple yet elegant dish that combines comfort and flavor in one. The creamy mushroom sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken, making it a family favorite for any occasion.
If you want, I can also create a shortcut one-pan version of this recipe that requires less cleanup but is just as flavorful.
Do you want me to do that?
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