Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that you can serve for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe offers juicy, flavorful chicken thighs, perfectly seared and enveloped in a rich garlic sauce. The combination of creamy ingredients and savory spices makes it irresistible. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce adds depth and richness, making each bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; it pairs well with various side dishes like rice or vegetables.
• Comfort Food: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, warming your heart and satisfying your cravings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy chicken dish, making it a hit for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, having the right tools is essential. Below are the necessary items to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Oven-proof skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Oven-proof skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken on the stove and then transfer it directly to the oven for baking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements of ingredients ensure consistent flavor every time.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface is crucial for preparing ingredients safely.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken

• 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 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)

For Garnish

• 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 375°F. This ensures that when you place your chicken inside, it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Next, season your chicken thighs with 21 Salute Seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides. This enhances the flavor of the meat before cooking.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Now, melt butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden brown color. After searing, transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Continue following these steps to complete your creamy oven-baked chicken thighs!

How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are delicious and versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and complements the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Asparagus – Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, pairing well with the richness of the chicken.
• Sautéed Spinach – A quick sauté in olive oil gives spinach a flavorful boost that balances the dish.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Creamy Risotto – Serve the chicken over a bed of creamy risotto for a luxurious texture that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• Butter Noodles – Simple buttered noodles provide a mild base that allows the chicken’s flavor to shine through.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Crusty French Baguette – A slice of baguette can add a satisfying crunch and is excellent for dipping into the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Achieving perfectly creamy oven-baked chicken thighs is simpler than you think. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use skinless and boneless thighs – This helps reduce fat while still keeping the meat juicy.
• Sear before baking – Searing the chicken thighs creates a beautiful golden crust and enhances flavor.
• Adjust seasoning carefully – Taste and adjust salt and pepper after cooking to ensure balanced flavor.
• Let it rest after baking – Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in tender meat.
• Garnish with fresh herbs – Adding fresh dill or parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds freshness to each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

To round out your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair perfectly with your creamy chicken thighs.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic enhance the richness of the dish.
2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted until crispy, Brussels sprouts add texture and a slightly nutty flavor.
3. Cauliflower Rice – A lighter option that soaks up flavors really well while adding volume to your plate.
4. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide crunch and elegance.
5. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds a healthy twist to your meal.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
7. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob offers sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully.
8. Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balance to rich dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken thoroughly can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides generously for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken thighs in one pan can cause uneven cooking. Sear them in batches if necessary to achieve that golden color.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking without preheating can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to 375F before starting.
• Using too much heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the sauce while leaving the chicken undercooked. Stick to medium heat for a perfect sear and even cooking.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into chicken immediately after baking can release juices. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for juicy results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs so special?

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are special due to their rich garlic sauce and tender meat that pairs perfectly with various sides.

How do you ensure juicy chicken thighs?

To ensure juicy chicken thighs, sear them properly and allow them to rest after baking. This helps retain moisture.

Can I use skin-on chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken thighs. Just adjust cooking times slightly as they may take longer to cook through.

What sides go well with Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?

Pair these thighs with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them an appealing choice for any dinner table. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices, making it versatile enough for any occasion. Give it a try; your family will love it!

Print

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

---

• Author: Laura Milligan
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious and effortless meal that combines juicy chicken with a rich garlic sauce, creating an irresistible dish perfect for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (such as 21 Salute from Trader Joe's)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped garlic
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken thighs with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
3. In an oven-proof skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour, then gradually add chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add cream and Parmesan cheese; simmer until thickened.
5. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and bake in the oven for about 25 minutes until fully cooked.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in advance. You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Pair with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.