There’s something magical about a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul. Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is that kind of recipe—the one that makes you sigh with contentment after the first bite. For me, this dish is more than just comfort food; it’s a reminder of cozy family dinners, where everyone gathers around the table to share stories, laughter, and delicious homemade meals.
Imagine tender chicken thighs bathed in a rich, garlicky cream sauce, topped with freshly grated Parmesan, and baked to golden perfection. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that comes together effortlessly in one pan. Let me walk you through the process of creating this delightful dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Comfort Food Made Easy: This dish combines the indulgence of a creamy sauce with the heartiness of juicy chicken thighs, all in under an hour. Perfect for those moments when you crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything from searing to baking happens in one skillet, cutting down on dishes and cleanup time. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights!
- Customizable and Versatile: Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless, making it a dish that adapts to your family’s preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or seasoned foodies, this creamy chicken dish never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, patted dry
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh dill (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential to ensure your chicken cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust while baking.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Lay your chicken thighs on a plate and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the seasonings adhere and creates a lovely crust during searing. Sprinkle both sides with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the Chicken
In a large, oven-proof skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is hot and bubbly, place the chicken thighs in the skillet. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
4. Make the Garlic Roux
Using the same skillet (don’t clean it—those browned bits are flavor gold!), melt 2 more tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown.
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic and stir continuously to form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce and give it a velvety texture. Cook the roux for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Create the Sauce
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Slowly stir in the heavy whipping cream, making sure the sauce is smooth and well-blended.
6. Add the Parmesan
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and continue whisking until it melts completely. The sauce should now be rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Assemble and Bake
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each thigh to ensure they’re well-coated. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes. The chicken will cook through, and the sauce will thicken to perfection.
8. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped dill (if desired) for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve the chicken hot, with plenty of sauce spooned over each piece.
Helpful Tips
- Dry Chicken for a Better Sear:
Moisture on the surface of the chicken prevents it from searing properly. Patting the thighs dry ensures they get that golden-brown crust. - Don’t Skip the Roux:
The roux is the foundation of the sauce, giving it a creamy consistency. Stir it well to avoid clumps. - Fresh Ingredients Are Key:
From garlic to Parmesan, using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. - Adjust the Sauce:
If your sauce is too thick after baking, a splash of chicken broth or cream can help loosen it up.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
Notes and Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy chicken with your favorite sides. Garlic mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even crusty bread are fantastic for soaking up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed green beans or a crisp salad.
Leftovers Tip:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in thighs may take longer to cook through.
Can I substitute the cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be as rich.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Combine it with the chicken and bake when ready to serve.
Related Recipes
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Conclusion
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into a special occasion. With its luscious sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s bound to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and prepare to delight your taste buds. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll be hooked!
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Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs : A Warm Hug on a Plate
Description
There’s something magical about a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul. Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is that kind of recipe—the one that makes you sigh with contentment after the first bite. For me, this dish is more than just comfort food; it’s a reminder of cozy family dinners, where everyone gathers around the table to share stories, laughter, and delicious homemade meals.
Imagine tender chicken thighs bathed in a rich, garlicky cream sauce, topped with freshly grated Parmesan, and baked to golden perfection. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that comes together effortlessly in one pan. Let me walk you through the process of creating this delightful dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, patted dry
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh dill (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential to ensure your chicken cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust while baking.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Lay your chicken thighs on a plate and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the seasonings adhere and creates a lovely crust during searing. Sprinkle both sides with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the Chicken
In a large, oven-proof skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is hot and bubbly, place the chicken thighs in the skillet. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
4. Make the Garlic Roux
Using the same skillet (don’t clean it—those browned bits are flavor gold!), melt 2 more tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown.
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic and stir continuously to form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce and give it a velvety texture. Cook the roux for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Create the Sauce
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Slowly stir in the heavy whipping cream, making sure the sauce is smooth and well-blended.
6. Add the Parmesan
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and continue whisking until it melts completely. The sauce should now be rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Assemble and Bake
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each thigh to ensure they’re well-coated. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes. The chicken will cook through, and the sauce will thicken to perfection.
8. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped dill (if desired) for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve the chicken hot, with plenty of sauce spooned over each piece.
Notes
Pair this creamy chicken with your favorite sides. Garlic mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even crusty bread are fantastic for soaking up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed green beans or a crisp salad.