If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort meal that combines rich flavors and effortless cooking, this Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Tender, golden-brown chicken thighs bathed in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce create an irresistible dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of juicy chicken and velvety sauce, making this recipe a go-to for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend feasts alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples and fresh ingredients that work together beautifully to build layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from seasoning to the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
- Chicken thighs, skinless and boneless: These provide tender, juicy meat that absorbs the sauce wonderfully.
- Poultry seasoning: Adds a warm, savory blend of herbs that elevates the chicken’s natural flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Used twice, it creates a rich base for searing and building the creamy sauce.
- Garlic, finely chopped: Gives the sauce its aromatic punch and depth.
- All-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, creating that perfect silky texture.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Heavy whipping cream: Brings unmatched richness and smoothness to the dish.
- Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino), finely grated: Infuses a bold, cheesy flavor that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, enhancing every ingredient.
- Fresh dill (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispier sear. Then, season each piece generously on both sides with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. This simple step layers in the foundational flavors that will shine through after baking.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Thighs
In a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it’s shimmering. Add the chicken thighs and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This not only seals in juices but also adds a lovely caramelized flavor. Once seared, transfer the thighs to a plate and set them aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Garlic Base
Using the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about a minute, stirring frequently. This releases the garlic’s fragrant oils and ensures the sauce will have a deep, savory backbone without any harshness.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth bit by bit, making sure to eliminate lumps as the sauce thickens. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese fully melts and the sauce achieves a velvety consistency. Taste now and add salt and pepper as needed to balance the rich flavors.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce and spooning some sauce over each piece. Place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. This final step allows the chicken to cook through perfectly while soaking up all those luscious sauce flavors. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy eating.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, you can sprinkle fresh dill over the top for a bright, herbal contrast and add more grated Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting goodness of this Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe with your favorite sides.
How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives add a pop of color and freshness that brighten the richness of the sauce. A little extra grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the dish’s savory appeal and makes it look irresistible on the plate.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even a simple rice pilaf to soak up every bit of the dreamy sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad add balance and textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant touch, plate the chicken over a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy polenta. You can also layer it on top of toasted crusty bread slices for a rustic open-faced presentation that’s perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken when chilled, so it’s best to warm gently before serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish by placing cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It stays good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from burning. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up and bring back the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in thighs add extra flavor and stay juicy, but you may need to increase the baking time by 5 to 10 minutes to ensure they cook fully.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?
Searing creates a delicious golden crust that locks in moisture and adds depth to the final dish, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake directly. Just be aware the texture will be less crispy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with olive oil, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be a bit different but still tasty.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired thickness.
What other herbs go well with this dish?
Thyme, rosemary, and parsley all complement the creamy Parmesan sauce beautifully. Try experimenting with your favorites to customize the flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe is a real showstopper for anyone craving a comforting, flavorful dish without extra fuss. I promise once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to that perfect combination of tender chicken and rich sauce. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this irresistible meal!
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Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, skinless boneless chicken thighs seared to golden perfection and baked in a luscious creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The dish is rich and comforting, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion meal, delivering layers of flavors with simple pantry ingredients and an easy oven-baking method.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 5 chicken thighs, skinless & boneless, patted dry
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (e.g., 21 Salute Seasoning or any preferred blend)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for searing chicken)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino), finely grated
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Season both sides of each chicken thigh with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the butter and garlic mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth until the sauce thickens, which should take about 1 minute. Add ½ cup of heavy whipping cream and stir well. Then, add ½ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese has melted into the sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
- Bake the Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over each piece. Place the skillet uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. If desired, garnish the baked chicken with 2 teaspoons of fresh chopped dill and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Use an oven-proof skillet to avoid transferring the chicken to another dish for baking.
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps to achieve a better sear.
- For extra flavor, you can substitute poultry seasoning with a mix of thyme, sage, rosemary, and marjoram.
- Ensure the sauce is lump-free by stirring constantly when adding the flour and broth.
- Monitor the chicken towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking and drying out.
- Fresh dill adds a nice bright flavor but can be omitted if not available.
