Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with a rich and creamy sauce, making each bite deliciously satisfying. It’s easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, which makes it a go-to choice for any home cook. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that is both comforting and luxurious?
How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes each).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. The creamy sauce is great for drizzling over rice or pasta too. Make sure to serve it hot for the best flavor.
How to Store Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
To store leftover chicken, let it cool completely and place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Make sure to sear the chicken well; this adds flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for added texture and nutrition.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less cream based on your preference.
Variation
For a more tangy flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice into the creamy sauce. You can also swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer, keeping in mind that they may cook a little faster.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in thighs.What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a thick coconut milk for a dairy-free option.Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble before baking for a quick dinner.
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs Bone-in or boneless can be used.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or thick coconut milk.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes each). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
Baking
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.