why make this recipe

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting family meal or a special dinner. Plus, the chicken thighs stay juicy and tender while soaking up the creamy sauce, making each bite truly enjoyable.

how to make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Ingredients

6 bone-in skinless chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano/thyme)
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill (chopped)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them with paprika, salt, and pepper.
In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

how to serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Serve the Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs hot from the oven. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables. The creamy sauce is also great for drizzling over your favorite side dishes.

how to store Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

To store leftovers, allow them to cool completely. Place the chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the spices and a bit of the cream for a few hours before cooking.
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture.

variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce. Cooking them together with the garlic can add extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Just reduce the cooking time as they will cook faster.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter for a lighter version, but it may not be as rich.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. When ready to eat, just combine and bake as instructed.