Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms for Cozy Nights

Hi I'm Emma

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 2, 2026

As I stirred the creamy polenta, the rich aroma of braised chicken thighs and earthy mushrooms wafted through my kitchen, instantly transforming it into a cozy haven. This recipe for braised chicken thighs with mushrooms pairs beautifully with velvety polenta, creating a comforting meal that warms the soul. Not only is it budget-friendly and easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, but it also invites a delightful mingling of flavors that can turn even the simplest dinner into a heartwarming feast. As autumn wraps its cool embrace around us, this dish becomes the perfect companion to gather around the table and enjoy some quality time. Curious about how to bring this deliciousness to your own family table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Crave This Dish

Comforting Warmth: The combined flavors of braised chicken thighs and earthy mushrooms envelop you in a blanket of coziness, perfect for chilly nights.

Hearty Ingredients: With juicy chicken and creamy polenta, each bite is an invitation to savor the goodness of homemade cooking.

Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients, making it ideal for any weeknight dinner without breaking the bank.

Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice chefs can create a delicious masterpiece that impresses family and friends.

Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a meal that everyone will love, making it a delightful choice for gatherings.

Don’t forget to check out my Crockpot Chicken Nachos for another easy recipe that’s sure to be a hit!

Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

Chicken Thighs – Juicy and tender, these provide the heart of your dish; feel free to substitute with chicken drumsticks.
Mushrooms – A blend of cremini and portobello deepens the flavor; shiitake can also bring more earthiness to the recipe.
Butter – Adds richness for sautéing; olive oil can be a lighter alternative.
Onion – Use yellow onion for its sweetness; shallots work well for a milder bite.
White Wine – Imparts depth and fruitiness; swap with chicken stock and a splash of vinegar if desired.
Chicken Stock – Ensures moisture and flavor; go for low-sodium options for a healthier choice.

For the Polenta

Milk – Whole milk creates the best creamy texture in the polenta; plant-based options can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
Coarse Yellow Cornmeal – This is your polenta’s base; instant polenta can save you time.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a cheesy richness to the polenta; nutritional yeast is a great substitute for a vegan option.

For Seasoning and Flavor

Thyme – Fresh thyme provides an earthy aroma; use dried thyme sparingly, as it’s more concentrated.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning your dish to taste and enhancing the flavors of all ingredients.

Gather these ingredients and prepare to create a heartwarming meal of braised chicken thighs with mushrooms and creamy polenta!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Next, lightly dredge each thigh in flour, shaking off the excess. This will help achieve a lovely brown crust during cooking. Set the seasoned thighs aside while you prepare the skillet.

Step 2: Brown Chicken
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it sizzles. Carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Turn them over and brown the other side for an additional 5 minutes. Once browned, remove and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if necessary, then toss in the chopped onion and mushrooms. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for approximately 10 minutes, or until the mushrooms have released their moisture and the onions are translucent, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Step 4: Deglaze and Braise
Once the onions and mushrooms are ready, pour in half a cup of white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Stream in one cup of chicken stock, followed by a few sprigs of fresh thyme. Return the browned chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer gently on medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 5: Make Polenta
While the chicken is braising, prepare the creamy polenta. In a separate saucepan, combine 1 cup of chicken stock, 1 cup of water, and 1 cup of milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of coarse yellow cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and cook for about 20 minutes until thickened and creamy. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Serve
To serve your comforting meal of braised chicken thighs with mushrooms, spoon a generous portion of creamy polenta into bowls. Top with the luscious chicken and mushroom mixture from the skillet, making sure to drizzle some of the savory sauce over everything. Enjoy this heartwarming dish with your loved ones!

Expert Tips for Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms

Perfect Browning: Ensure chicken thighs are well-browned for rich flavor. This adds a depth that’s key to a delicious sauce.
Prevent Lumps: Gradually whisk cornmeal into simmering liquid for creamy polenta. This helps avoid any lumps that can ruin a smooth texture.
Seasoning Adjustment: Always taste and adjust seasoning after making polenta, as it can absorb flavors differently. Salt can elevate the dish further.
Thyme Removal: Remember to remove thyme sprigs before serving. This keeps the presentation clean and prevents anyone from biting into a tough sprig.
Add Extras: Consider stirring in sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrients and vibrant color. This will take your braised chicken thighs with mushrooms to a whole new level!

Make Ahead Options

These braised chicken thighs with mushrooms are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can braise the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply let it cool, refrigerate, and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving to maintain tenderness. The creamy polenta can be prepared a day in advance as well, but for the best texture, it’s ideal to make it fresh. If you choose to prep the polenta ahead, store it in an airtight container, and simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk to loosen it up. This way, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time—ideal for busy weeknights!

Variations & Substitutions

Inviting your family to personalize this cozy dish will open up a world of flavors and textures!

Greens Addition: Toss in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a lovely pop of color and nutrition.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or firm tofu, making it a hearty vegetarian meal that still fills the heart.
Cheesy Flavor: Experiment with different cheeses in the polenta—gouda or feta can add a delightful twist that surprises the palate.
Extra Depth: Incorporate smoked paprika or a dash of cumin to the chicken for an unexpected warmth that dances on your taste buds.
Serve with a Kick: Drizzle with sriracha or chili oil for a zesty finish that elevates the comfort food vibe to something spicier.
Herb Variations: Exchange thyme with fresh rosemary or sage for a fragrant distinction, reminiscent of fall harvest dishes.
Nutty Hint: Stir in toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the polenta for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy textures.
Saucy Option: Blend a splash of cream or coconut milk into the sauce for a richer taste experience that will send you to cloud nine.

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out my Lazy Chicken Parmesan for another delightful twist on chicken dishes!

What to Serve with Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms

Looking to craft a fulfilling meal around this hearty dish? Let’s explore some delicious sides that enhance the flavors and textures of your dinner.

Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crisp, caramelized exterior pairs perfectly with the rich chicken, adding a delightful crunch to your plate.
Crisp Green Salad: A fresh mix of arugula and radishes lightly dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy polenta.
Herbed Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery bread complements each bite of chicken and polenta, perfect for soaking up those savory juices.
Braised Greens: Sautéed kale or Swiss chard adds a vibrant, nutritious element to your meal while balancing out the richness of the dish.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes deliver comfort while harmonizing with the savory chicken and mushroom flavors.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, beautifully accents the chicken’s richness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp; its cinnamon-spiced goodness is the perfect comfort dessert to highlight fall flavors.

Storage Tips for Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms

Fridge: Store any leftover braised chicken thighs with mushrooms in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the braised chicken thighs with mushrooms in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date for easy retrieval.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep it moist, or microwave until heated through.
Polenta Storage: Creamy polenta is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk, stirring often to regain its creamy consistency.

Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using a blend of cremini and portobello mushrooms. These varieties offer a lovely, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the braised chicken thighs. If you want to explore different textures and tastes, shiitake or hen-of-the-woods mushrooms can add an extra layer of richness.

How should I store my braised chicken thighs with mushrooms?
After indulging in your delicious meal, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it to retain its freshness. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What are the best methods for reheating braised chicken thighs?
To reheat frozen braised chicken thighs with mushrooms, first thaw overnight in the fridge. When ready to serve, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it until heated through, but keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.

Can I make the creamy polenta ahead of time?
I often recommend making polenta when you’re ready to serve, as it has the best texture fresh. However, if you have leftovers, they can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk and warm it gently on the stove while stirring frequently to restore its creamy consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider swapping out certain ingredients. For a dairy-free version, you can use plant-based milk in the polenta and replace the butter with olive oil. Also, keep in mind that anyone with poultry allergies should avoid this recipe or substitute with a non-chicken protein like portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.