After a particularly hectic day, I found myself craving something comforting and delicious without a lot of fuss. The moment I opened my fridge and spotted those chicken thighs, inspiration struck! This recipe for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs in Garlic Parmesan Sauce was born out of a desire for a quick yet indulgent dinner, and let me tell you, it delivers!
Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs seared to perfection and then bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s rich with garlic and the nutty notes of Parmesan. In under an hour, this meal transforms pantry staples into a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it also adapts beautifully to your pantry’s whims. Whether you’re looking for something gluten-free or just want to swap in your favorite seasoning blend, the possibilities are endless. Let’s dive into this creamy comfort food adventure that will quickly become a weeknight favorite!
Why are Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs a must-try?
Heavenly Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan sauce gives this dish an irresistible allure that will have your taste buds dancing.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting without the fuss.
Adaptable & Versatile: Feel free to substitute the chicken with your preferred cut or adjust the spices to suit your mood—this recipe is as flexible as you need it to be!
Comfort Food Delight: Enjoy the rich, creamy sauce that’s sure to warm your heart, making this dish an ideal choice for cozy dinners at home.
Impressive Presentation: Your family and friends will be amazed at how you transformed simple ingredients into a dish worthy of special occasions!
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Ingredients
Note: Gather these ingredients to create your own delightful Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – These are perfect for tenderness and absorbing that luscious sauce.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavors of your chicken; season generously.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Used for sautéing and creating that rich, creamy base; can be swapped for olive oil.
- Garlic – Freshly chopped to infuse aromatic depth and flavor into the sauce; avoid powdered garlic for the best taste.
- 21 Salute Seasoning – A flavorful blend to elevate the chicken’s taste; feel free to use any poultry seasoning on hand.
- All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the sauce; consider gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Chicken Broth – Provides a savory liquid base for the sauce; white wine can be used for a unique twist.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Delivers that luxurious, creamy texture that envelopes the chicken; half-and-half is a lighter alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for richness and depth; pre-shredded lacks the same flavor.
For Garnish
- Fresh Dill – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish; can be omitted if preferred.
Happy cooking with these ingredients as you embark on creating your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs!
How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
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Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked chicken once you pop it in! -
Season the Chicken:
Generously season the boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and 21 Salute seasoning. This flavor base is crucial for delicious results. -
Sear the Chicken:
Melt unsalted butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a lovely golden brown. Once done, transfer them to a plate. -
Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add a bit more butter and sauté the finely chopped garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. This will create a delicious aroma! -
Make the Roux:
Sprinkle all-purpose flour into the skillet to form a roux. Whisk it together for about 1 minute until it’s smooth and bubbly—this will help thicken your sauce. -
Add the Broth:
Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes velvety, creating the base for your creamy sauce. -
Stir in Cream and Cheese:
Now, add heavy whipping cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the saucepan. Mix it until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Combine and Bake:
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, making sure they are well coated in that luscious sauce. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). -
Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, garnish with fresh dill and add a bit more cheese on top if desired. Serve this beautiful dish alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite veggies.
Optional: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet for additional flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months; defrost in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of broth or cream to the sauce to maintain its creamy consistency.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth and ensure safety.
What to Serve with Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy delight with complementary sides that enhance its rich flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes mirrors the sauce, creating a luxurious combination that’s irresistibly comforting.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that luscious sauce, making each bite a flavorful delight.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots and green beans brings freshness and a slight sweetness, balancing the richness of the chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: This crisp vegetable adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color, plus its mild flavor makes it a perfect companion.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf shines as a base for the creamy sauce, allowing you to enjoy a comforting and fulfilling meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing paired with crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the chicken’s richness.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the creamy and savory notes, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat offers a light and satisfying end to your meal, leaving you with sweet memories.
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing sorbet can cleanse your palate after the creamy chicken, making it a perfect sweet finish.
Expert Tips for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
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Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This ensures a better sear and helps flavors adhere well.
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Avoid Overcrowding: When searing chicken, give each piece space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy skin.
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Use Fresh Garlic: Opt for fresh garlic instead of powder for your sauce. Fresh garlic brings a vibrant, aromatic depth that enhances the creamy flavor.
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Monitor Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, whisk in a splash of broth or cream. This keeps the sauce perfectly creamy without sacrificing flavor.
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Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to try different cheeses! Asiago or Romano can add unique flavors to your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, making them even more delightful.
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Variations
Feel free to play around with these variations to make this dish uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce while keeping it deliciously creamy.
- Lean Option: Swap chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts to create a lighter dinner without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Try using different cheeses like feta or gouda for a unique taste and creamy texture that brings new life to this dish.
- Veggie Boost: Add fresh spinach or kale to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious burst of color and flavor.
- Herb Enhance: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist that elevates the garlic and Parmesan notes beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle heat that balances the creaminess.
- Mushroom Bliss: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic to enrich the sauce and add earthiness that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Citrus Zing: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving, bringing brightness and a refreshing tartness to the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for meal prep aficionados! You can season and sear the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. Once seared, refrigerate the chicken in an airtight container, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful. You can also prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time, storing it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove, return the chicken to the skillet, and bake as directed for a quick, delicious dinner that tastes as fresh as if you’d just made it!
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken thighs should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs to achieve tender and juicy results. If you prefer a slightly lighter dish, skinless thighs will allow the creamy sauce to shine! However, you can also experiment with chicken breasts or drumsticks if you have those on hand.
How should I store leftover Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken moist, I suggest gently reheating it on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of broth or cream to the sauce if it has thickened. This helps restore its velvety consistency!
Is freezing an option for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chicken in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, gently warm it in the oven or stovetop, incorporating a little broth or cream to achieve that creamy texture again.
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What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, no worries at all! Simply whisk in a splash of broth or heavy cream over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will not just adjust the texture but also enhance the flavor!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This will keep the creamy sauce delicious and rich while accommodating dietary preferences—everyone can enjoy it!
Are there any common ingredient substitutions I should know about?
Definitely! If you’re out of some ingredients or looking for alternatives, you can swap unsalted butter with olive oil for a lighter flavor. Instead of chicken broth, white wine adds a lovely twist to the sauce. Feel free to experiment and make it your own—variety is the spice of life!
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Generously season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and 21 Salute seasoning.
- Melt butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side.
- In the same skillet, add more butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle flour into the skillet to form a roux, whisking until smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth, and season to taste.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and coat them in the sauce.
- Bake uncovered in the oven for 30-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh dill and serve.