Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that can transform any meal into a comforting experience. The rich, creamy garlic sauce enveloping the tender, juicy chicken thighs is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also offers a balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, you can enjoy a gourmet meal right at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready without complicated techniques.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible creamy sauce.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair these chicken thighs with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish fits right in.
Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and flavorful seasoning make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, gather the essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast Iron Skillet or Oven-Proof Skillet
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Knife and Cutting Board
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Cast Iron Skillet or Oven-Proof Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken and then transitioning directly to the oven for baking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor every time.
Knife and Cutting Board: Necessary for chopping garlic and preparing ingredients safely.
Whisk: Useful for mixing the cream sauce smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs -seared chicken thighs cooked in a creamy garlic sauce.

For the Chicken Thighs

5 chicken thighs (skinless & boneless, dried with paper towel)
1 teaspoon 21 Salute Seasoning (from Trader Joe’s or use any poultry seasoning of your choice)
salt & pepper (to taste)

For the Cream 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 prieve cheese, finely grated)
salt & pepper (to taste)
2 teaspoons dill (finely chopped for garnish, optional)

How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat the oven to 375F. This ensures that your chicken bakes evenly while developing that beautiful creamy sauce.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Next, season the chicken thighs with 21 Salute seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides. This step enhances the overall flavor of your dish.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken Thighs

Now, melt butter in your oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs:
1. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden color.
2. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

These steps will help you create mouthwatering Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs that everyone will love!

How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs make for a delicious and comforting meal. The rich sauce pairs beautifully with various sides, enhancing your dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil and roast until tender for a healthy side.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steam green beans and season with salt for a crisp, refreshing complement.

Over Rice or Pasta

Garlic Butter Rice: Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy garlic butter rice for added flavor and texture.
Creamy Fettuccine: Pair with fettuccine tossed in light cream sauce to soak up the delicious drippings.

With Salad

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and zest, creating a balanced meal.
Mixed Greens Salad: Fresh mixed greens with a vinaigrette provide a bright contrast to the creamy chicken.

How to Perfect Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, consider these helpful tips.

Use Bone-In Thighs: Bone-in thighs retain moisture better, resulting in juicier meat.
Pat Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning; this helps achieve a nice sear.
Sear Well: Don’t rush the searing process; give each side enough time to develop a golden crust.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper according to your preferences for enhanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Complementing your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic make a perfect pairing.
Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs offers a nutritious option that absorbs the sauce well.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes baked until tender add sweetness and balance to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds brightness and a pop of color to your meal.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears add elegance and flavor without overwhelming the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking creamy oven baked chicken thighs can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Neglecting to Dry the Chicken: Always dry your chicken thighs with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice golden sear.
Using Too Much Flour: If you add too much flour for the sauce, it can become overly thick and pasty. Stick to the recommended amount for a smooth texture.
Skipping the Searing Step: Searing adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall dish significantly.
Not Tasting as You Go: Failing to taste your sauce can lead to unbalanced flavors. Adjust seasonings gradually for the perfect creamy sauce.
Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken thighs while baking. Overcooking can make them dry; use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store creamy oven baked chicken thighs in an airtight container.
They will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Place cooled chicken thighs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Use medium power and cover with a microwave-safe lid. Heat in short intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes creamy oven baked chicken thighs so delicious?

The combination of seared chicken and creamy garlic sauce creates a rich flavor that is both comforting and satisfying.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs can be used but may require longer cooking times. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How do I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Are creamy oven baked chicken thighs healthy?

While they are indulgent due to cream, using less cream or substituting with Greek yogurt can make them lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy oven baked chicken thighs are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize this recipe with different herbs or additional ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try for your next weeknight dinner—it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 5 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, a dish that transforms any dinner into a gourmet experience. This easy recipe features succulent, juicy chicken thighs seared to golden perfection and enveloped in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings, this delightful dish combines simplicity with extraordinary flavor. With minimal prep time, you can serve up a satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Pair it with rice, pasta, or fresh vegetables for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

Scale

5 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Season chicken thighs with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In an oven-proof skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sear chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden.
Transfer chicken to a plate and prepare the sauce by adding garlic and flour to the skillet. Cook briefly before whisking in chicken broth and cream.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth; return chicken to the skillet.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American