If you have been searching for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken thighs enveloped in a luscious, garlicky, Parmesan cream sauce that bakes to golden perfection. This dish elevates simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal that delights the senses and leaves you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends, this recipe hits all the right notes with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe is straightforward yet crucial in building layers of flavor and texture. From the seasoning that complements the chicken to the creamy sauce that brings everything together, every element plays an essential role.
- 5 chicken thighs, skinless & boneless: Choose fresh thighs and pat them dry to ensure a perfect sear and juicy texture.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: A blend of herbs and spices adds depth and warmth to the chicken.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the dish.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Used for both searing the chicken and creating a rich sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped: Adds an aromatic punch that infuses the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a smooth and velvety consistency.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides savory richness while balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream: The heart of the “creamy” in this Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe, making the sauce silky and indulgent.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated: Melts into the sauce to add sharpness and a slight nuttiness.
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, finely chopped (optional): A fresh, herbaceous garnish that adds a subtle brightness at the end.
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 to remove any moisture, which is key for getting a beautiful golden sear. Then, generously season both sides of the chicken with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. This initial step sets the foundation for amazing flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This step locks in the juices and creates a lovely texture. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest briefly.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. This step awakens the garlic’s flavor and infuses the butter, which is the foundation of the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to form a roux, cooking for about one minute to remove any raw flour taste. Slowly stream in the chicken broth while whisking nonstop to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce starts to thicken, then stir in the heavy whipping cream. Next, fold in the finely grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is smooth and decadent. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce and spooning some sauce over the top. Place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C). The sauce will continue to thicken and coat the thighs beautifully during this time.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from the oven and if you like, sprinkle chopped fresh dill and extra Parmesan cheese over the chicken. These last touches add fresh aroma and extra flavor that elevate the dish even further. Serve this comforting Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe hot straight from the pan for a meal that truly feels special.
How to Serve Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh herbs like dill or parsley over the finished dish adds a lovely pop of color and brightness, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce. A little extra Parmesan cheese on top can also enhance both the flavor and the presentation, making the dish feel extra indulgent.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light green salad. The creamy sauce calls for something to soak up its deliciousness, so a crusty bread or buttery rice is also a fantastic choice to complete your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping dinner, serve the chicken thighs over a bed of creamy polenta or buttered egg noodles. Layer the creamy chicken atop sautéed spinach or wilted kale for an elegant touch. Even presentation in individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets adds rustic charm that will impress your guests without much fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce tends to thicken as it cools but reheats beautifully, making it perfect for next-day meals or quick lunches.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, although the sauce may separate slightly when thawed. To freeze, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to reincorporate the sauce. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s silky texture if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to preserve the dish’s creamy consistency and juicy chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and more forgiving in the oven, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used. Just be careful not to overbake breasts, as they can dry out quicker; adjusting cooking time accordingly is key.
Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan adds a distinctive sharp and nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. However, Pecorino Romano or even Asiago cheese can be great alternatives if you want to mix things up or prefer a different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, swap the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and omit or replace the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will change somewhat.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of a thigh to ensure there is no pink and the juices run clear.
Can this recipe be made in advance for meal prep?
Yes, this Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe can be prepared ahead of time up to the point of baking, then refrigerated for up to a day before putting it in the oven. This makes it a great option for meal prep or dinner parties where you want to save time.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to wow and satisfy. Its beautiful harmony of robust seasoning, tender chicken, and indulgently creamy sauce makes it an instant favorite any time of year. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try—once you do, it might just become a staple in your dinner rotation too.
Print
Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs seared to golden perfection and baked in a rich, flavorful sauce made from butter, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Finished with a dash of fresh dill, this comforting dish is perfect for an elegant weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
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)
- 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
Garnish
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and season: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of the thighs evenly with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear chicken: In a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken thighs and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Using the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Add the heavy whipping cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts completely into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust 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 in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Serve and garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven. If desired, garnish the dish with fresh dill and extra grated Parmesan. Serve the creamy oven baked chicken thighs hot alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken thighs are patted dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear.
- If you don’t have an oven-proof skillet, transfer the sauce and chicken to a baking dish before putting it in the oven.
- Fresh dill adds a lovely bright aroma but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer before adding the chicken back in.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
