How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Looking for a rich and creamy chicken recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in? You’ve come to the right place! Today, I’m excited to share with you how to make tender and juicy Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs that are sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is all about comfort food at its finest, with a deliciously creamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A creamy, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over your favorite sides
• Tender and juicy chicken thighs that are fall-apart delicious
• An easy, hands-off cooking method that’s perfect for busy weeknights
• A versatile dish that pairs well with easy pasta recipes or a fresh green salad

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• 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)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 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)
• 2 teaspoon dill (finely chopped for garnish, optional)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with the 21 Salute Seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
3. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
6. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
7. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dill if desired. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
8. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top of each thigh.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
10. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional dill if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly every time:

• Make sure to dry the chicken thighs thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the chicken brown better and ensures a crispy exterior.
• Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken in the skillet. This adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the dish that you won’t want to miss.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy whipping cream or substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken before serving.

How to Serve

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve the chicken thighs alongside a bed of fluffy rice, where the creamy sauce can drizzle over the top.
• Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.
• Try it with pan-seared steak for a hearty, indulgent dinner.
• For a comforting quick family dinner, serve the chicken over egg noodles or with a side of easy pasta recipes like garlic butter penne.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules. Here’s how:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and season the chicken up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Freezing: The cooked chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

There you have it—Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a 30-minute meal, a weeknight dinner idea, or just a deliciously comforting dish, this recipe delivers. Don’t forget to check out some of our other favorite recipes, like garlic butter beef bites, for more inspiration. Happy cooking!