Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this chicken Marengo will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Rich and savory. Tender chicken and creamy sauce.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves chicken and mushrooms.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken thighs, mushrooms, and tomatoes are inexpensive.
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Perfect for weeknights and special occasions.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 6–8 pieces), patted dry
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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2 (8-ounce) packages sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
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1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
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1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
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2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral cooking oil for browning the chicken (optional but recommended)
Ingredient Notes
Chicken thighs: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
Mushrooms: Use white or cremini mushrooms.
Diced tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes with juices.
Cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy sauce base.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a deep ceramic casserole dish.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs very dry. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional)
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden, about 4 to 5 minutes. Turn and sear the other side for 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the casserole dish.
Step 4: Add the Mushrooms and Sauce
Scatter the sliced mushrooms evenly around and over the chicken. In a medium bowl, stir together the diced tomatoes and cream of mushroom soup until combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and mushrooms.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and spoon some of the sauce over the tops of the thighs. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 25 to 35 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the sauce is thickened.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Marengo
This rich, savory chicken is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
Over Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the sauce.
With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes are a classic pairing.
With Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles catch the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken Breasts: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts.
Make It with Different Mushrooms: Use cremini or shiitake.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Onion: Add sliced onion.
Make It with Wine: Add white wine to the sauce.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soup.
Make It in a Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Pat the chicken dry. This helps the skin crisp.
Sear the chicken for extra flavor. This step is optional but recommended.
Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam.
Let the chicken rest before serving. This keeps it juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Pork chops or turkey can be used.
Can I use a different vegetable?
Yes. Bell peppers or onions can be used.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes. Cream of chicken or celery soup can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The chicken released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Add Parmesan or mozzarella.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without searing?
Yes. The flavor will be slightly less rich.
The Beauty of Chicken Marengo
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, rich chicken dish that comes together in one pan. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This chicken Marengo is a celebration of all those things.
Keep chicken in your freezer. Keep mushrooms, tomatoes, and soup in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes covered, plus 25–35 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
Yield: 6 servings