If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, baked to golden perfection—this recipe turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. It’s not only comforting and indulgent but also easy enough for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and timeless ingredients, each playing a vital role: from the seasoning that brings depth to the chicken, to the creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops every bite with richness and flavor.
- 5 chicken thighs, skinless & boneless: The star of the dish, these become tender and juicy when baked.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: Adds a warm, earthy blend of herbs that complement the chicken perfectly.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce to elevate flavors.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for searing): Gives the chicken a beautifully golden crust and adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce): The foundation of the creamy garlic sauce, adding silkiness.
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped: Brings a fragrant and savory punch to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cream sauce for a perfect silky texture.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the creaminess with a subtle savoriness.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream: The secret to that dreamy, creamy consistency you’ll want to savor.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties every element together.
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, finely chopped (optional): A fresh, herby garnish that adds a pop of color and brightness.
How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). Take those chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel—this step ensures they’ll sear beautifully. Next, sprinkle the poultry seasoning evenly on both sides along with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning combo is the first step to building the dish’s incredible flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the chicken thighs and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. This not only locks in juices but adds a delicious crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Once seared, place them on a plate and set aside for now.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about a minute, stirring often to avoid browning. The aroma at this stage will have your kitchen feeling cozy and inviting—garlic is a game changer here, making the sauce irresistibly fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and stir constantly for about a minute to cook off the raw taste and create a roux that will thicken the sauce. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth bit by bit as you stir; this prevents lumps and helps the sauce thicken perfectly. Once thickened, gently add the heavy whipping cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is silky smooth. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This sauce is where the magic of the Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe truly shines.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Return your seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into that luscious sauce. Spoon some sauce over each piece to coat them lovingly. Then, pop the skillet into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. This slow baking finishes cooking the chicken through while allowing the sauce to thicken even more and infuse into the meat. You’ll want to bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. If you like, sprinkle fresh dill on top along with a bit of extra grated Parmesan for a splash of color and an herby aroma. Now, it’s ready to serve and impress.
How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley elevate this dish visually and add a subtle freshness that balances the creaminess. A little extra Parmesan sprinkled on top also creates a lovely finishing touch that keeps the flavors vibrant and inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce, buttery roasted vegetables, or even a simple garlic bread to scoop up every last bit. Light salads with crisp greens and lemon vinaigrette also make a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special twist, serve the creamy chicken over a bed of buttered egg noodles or creamy polenta. You can also spoon some sauce over roasted asparagus or green beans for an elegant presentation. Using individual ramekins for a personal serving also adds charm if you’re hosting friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken further when chilled but thins out nicely upon reheating.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though for best texture, freeze the chicken and sauce separately if possible. Use a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the oven.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help refresh the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving at high heat to maintain that silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in thighs add extra flavor and moisture, though they may require a slightly longer baking time to ensure they’re cooked through. Just be sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half can work, but keep in mind this may alter the texture and flavor slightly. For the richest result, stick with heavy cream if you can.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! It reheats well and makes a satisfying meal ready to go. Just store portions in airtight containers and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the sauce before baking for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of how much liquid they release to keep the sauce creamy.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap out butter for olive oil, use a dairy-free cream substitute, and choose a dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether. The flavor will be different but still delicious with suitable adjustments.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe is a true celebration of comforting, home-style cooking done simply but with incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, it’s a dish that delivers every time and will quickly become one of those go-to meals that everyone raves about. So grab those chicken thighs and get ready to create something truly special—you won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, boneless, skinless chicken thighs seared to a golden brown and baked in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic and poultry seasoning. Perfectly cooked in the oven, this dish delivers comforting, savory flavors with a luscious texture that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 5 chicken thighs, skinless & boneless, patted dry
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (e.g., 21 Salute Seasoning or any preferred blend)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for searing)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino), finely grated
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of the chicken thighs evenly with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden brown color. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Add the heavy whipping cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake the Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over each piece. Place the skillet uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Optionally, garnish the chicken with fresh chopped dill and extra grated cheese. Serve the creamy baked chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken thighs are patted completely dry to achieve a good sear.
- Use an oven-proof skillet to avoid transferring the chicken and sauce during baking.
- Feel free to substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Fresh dill is optional but adds a nice herby brightness to the finished dish.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven and chicken thigh size; always check internal temperature for doneness.
