Udmurt Chicken and Mushroom Casserole (Курино-грибная запеканка)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic and mushrooms, and cook until the mushrooms are tender.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Place the seared chicken thighs in a casserole dish and pour the mushroom sauce over the top.
9. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the top.
11. Serve the Udmurt Chicken and Mushroom Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.