Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 292 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs feature tender, juicy bone-in chicken thighs baked with a rich and velvety Parmesan ranch cream sauce. The dish balances crispy skin with a luscious sauce perfect for a comforting dinner.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz or 28 g)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cream Sauce

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 g)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then drizzle with olive oil. Season evenly with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Arrange Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up in the greased baking dish, ensuring they are spread out evenly for proper cooking.
  4. Make Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined and smooth.
  5. Add Sauce: Gently pour the cream sauce over the chicken thighs, carefully avoiding pouring it directly on the skin to keep it crispy during baking.
  6. Bake: Bake the chicken uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
  7. Optional Broil: For extra crispy skin, switch the oven to broil and broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in juices. Spoon any remaining creamy sauce over each serving before serving.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve crispy skin.
  • Do not pour cream sauce on the skin to keep it crisp while baking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C).
  • Optional broiling step enhances skin crispiness but watch carefully to prevent burning.
  • Leftover sauce pairs well with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.