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Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs provide the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, making them a go-to choice for family dinners or cozy nights in. Imagine succulent chicken, perfectly seared and enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that effortlessly impresses without demanding hours of preparation—ideal for busy weeknights or intimate gatherings.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this delightful chicken recipe. First and foremost, it’s unbelievably easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. This dish is also incredibly versatile—suitable for special occasions, family dinners, or even a comforting Sunday meal.
“This recipe has become a staple in my house! The chicken is tender, and the creamy sauce is to die for. My kids ask for it every week!” – A Happy Home Cook
How this recipe comes together
Let’s take a closer look at how simple it is to create this creamy delight. Following the step-by-step process ensures that you achieve mouthwatering results every time. The initial sear on the chicken locks in flavors, while the creamy Parmesan sauce is the star, delivering a explosion of taste. Just a few ingredients and some bakery magic transform dinner into a memorable occasion!
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients to create your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
You can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk if you’re looking for a lighter version. However, the richness of heavy cream is truly what brings this dish to life!
Step-by-step instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the center.
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Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
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In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 4–5 minutes.
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While the chicken relaxes, whisk together the heavy cream, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan in a bowl until smooth. A light pinch of pepper adds flavor to the sauce.
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Place the seared chicken thighs in a baking dish or keep them in the skillet. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened. If the sauce starts to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.
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Once done, let it rest for about 5 minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
To bring out the full experience of this dish, consider serving Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. For a rustic touch, crusty bread will complement the creamy sauce beautifully. You could also opt for roasted vegetables to add color and nutrition to your plate.
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers—lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, you can freeze the chicken along with the sauce for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or the microwave until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
For a perfect sear, make sure the chicken skin is dry before seasoning. This helps avoid steaming and ensures that crispy texture. Do not skip the resting time after baking—it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
Creative twists
Feel free to get adventurous with this recipe! Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the cream mixture for added flavor and nutrition. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with Gruyère for a different cheesy flair, or even make it spicy with a touch of crushed red pepper flake in the sauce.
Common questions
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What is the prep time for this recipe?
- Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking takes about 30 minutes.
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Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Yes, but the cooking time will be less since breasts cook quicker. Monitor closely!
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How do I know when the chicken is done?
- Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Is there a non-dairy substitute for the cream?
- Yes, coconut cream or cashew cream can be used as alternatives.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Final thoughts
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are not just a meal; they’re an experience waiting to happen. With a rich sauce and lovingly seared chicken, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment about how yours turned out!
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Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the center.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 4–5 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan until smooth. Add a light pinch of pepper to the sauce.
- Place the seared chicken thighs in a baking dish (or keep in the skillet) and pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbly and thickened.
- Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Finish with freshly chopped parsley.