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

Scale

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.