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.