why make this recipe
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful choice for a comforting meal. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, creamy sauce that is full of flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Not only is it simple to make, but it also requires easy-to-find ingredients. Plus, the oven does most of the work for you, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the meal with your loved ones.
how to make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 5 chicken thighs (skinless & boneless, dried with paper towel)
- 1 teaspoon 21 Salute Seasoning (from Trader Joe’s or any poultry seasoning of your choice)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
- 2 tablespoons garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (or any cheese of your choice, finely grated)
- 2 teaspoons dill (finely chopped for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Next, season the chicken with the seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Melt butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and stir for another minute.
- Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with dill if desired before serving.
how to serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Serve your creamy chicken thighs alongside your favorite sides. They go well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. Don’t forget to spoon some of the creamy sauce over your sides for extra flavor!
how to store Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens, you can add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out.
tips to make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Make sure to dry the chicken thighs well before seasoning to get a nice sear.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
- Feel free to add vegetables to the skillet before baking, like spinach or mushrooms, for added nutrition.
👉 If you loved this, don’t miss my Cheeseburger Casserole for another cozy, family-style dinner.
variation (if any)
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. Adjust cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.
3. Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?
While it’s not strictly necessary, searing the chicken adds flavor and a lovely color that makes the dish visually appealing.
Looking for the coziest dinner? These Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs in cream sauce are rich, comforting, and so easy to make. Save this oven baked chicken thighs recipe for your next family meal!
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Oven-proof Skillet
Ingredients
Chicken
- 5 chicken thighs (skinless & boneless, patted dry)
- 1 tsp 21 Salute Seasoning (or any poultry seasoning)
- salt & pepper (to taste)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 2 tbsp garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated (or cheese of choice))
- 2 tsp dill (finely chopped, optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with 21 Salute seasoning (or poultry seasoning), salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Melt butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat.
- Sear chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over garlic, stirring for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until sauce is creamy.
- Return chicken thighs to skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake 25-30 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh dill before serving, if desired.
