Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that will make your kitchen smell heavenly, then you’ve come to the right place! These Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are one of my favorite go-to recipes for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. The combination of tender chicken thighs seared to perfection and enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s an easy dish that even novice cooks can whip up without breaking a sweat.

What makes this recipe truly special is how versatile it is; whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, these chicken thighs never disappoint. Get ready to savor each bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have an amazing meal on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone will love the creamy garlic sauce; it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup—less time washing dishes means more time with loved ones!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the chicken ahead of time, pop it in the oven later, and enjoy a stress-free dinner.
• Deliciously Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides like rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to know that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Chicken

• 5 chicken thighs (skinless & boneless, dried with paper towel)
• 1 teaspoon 21 Salute Seasoning (from Trader Joe’s or any poultry seasoning you prefer)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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 alternative cheese like prieve, finely grated)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 2 teaspoons dill (finely chopped for garnish, optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not into chicken thighs, try using chicken breasts or even turkey cutlets for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms when preparing the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you’re looking for an extra kick!

How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat and Season

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. While that’s heating up, season your chicken thighs generously on both sides with the seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish right from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Now it’s time to melt some butter in your oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add those seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they achieve a beautiful golden color. Searing locks in moisture and adds depth to your dish. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

In that same skillet, add more butter if needed and toss in your finely chopped garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then sprinkle in the flour. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute until it turns golden. This will help thicken our creamy sauce later!

Step 4: Add Broth and Cream

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Next comes the heavy whipping cream; mix it all together until smooth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now return those seared chicken thighs back into the skillet and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Spoon some of that luscious sauce over them so they get all coated in creamy goodness!

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Transfer your skillet into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will be absolutely delightful!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, let it rest briefly before serving. Garnish with fresh dill if desired. Dig into this comforting bowl of Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs—you deserve every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Cooking is all about enjoying the process and creating delicious memories, so here are some handy tips to help you make the best creamy oven-baked chicken thighs!

• Use a meat thermometer: Ensuring your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F guarantees it will be fully cooked and juicy, avoiding any risk of undercooked poultry.

• Let the chicken rest: After searing, letting the chicken sit for a few minutes before adding it back to the sauce allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to substitute some of the heavy whipping cream with additional chicken broth. This keeps the dish creamy while reducing fat content.

• Experiment with seasonings: Don’t hesitate to play around with different herbs and spices! Adding thyme or rosemary can give a new twist to your creamy sauce.

• Make it ahead: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheating gently in the oven helps meld those flavors together even more beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Serving your creamy oven-baked chicken thighs beautifully can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh dill: A sprinkle of finely chopped dill not only adds a pop of color but also complements the creamy flavor beautifully.
• Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the dish and add a fresh note that contrasts nicely with the richness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up that luscious garlic sauce. They make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with chicken.
• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds both nutrition and color to your plate, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans are not only visually appealing but also add a nice crunch that balances out the creaminess of the chicken thighs.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your family or guests with an unforgettable dinner experience! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners or lunch packing a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container.
• Keep the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing it.

Freezing

• If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the chicken thighs in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
• Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of thighs for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?

Yes! You can use chicken breasts if you prefer. However, keep in mind that they may require less cooking time, so adjust accordingly to avoid drying them out.

How can I make the sauce for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs thicker?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, simply add an extra tablespoon of flour when preparing it. Alternatively, simmer it a bit longer after adding the cream and cheese until it reaches your desired thickness.

What should I serve with Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Can I make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a delicious dairy-free version.

How long does it take to bake Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?

The total cooking time is approximately 45 minutes after searing the chicken. Just ensure it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs as much as I do! This recipe is not just about delightful flavors; it’s about creating wonderful meals that bring warmth and comfort to your table. Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, these chicken thighs are sure to satisfy your cravings. Happy cooking!

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