why make this recipe
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal for two. The chicken thighs turn out juicy and tender, thanks to the creamy sauce made with garlic and Parmesan cheese. It’s easy to prepare and cooks in the oven, freeing you up to focus on other tasks or sides. Who doesn’t love a dish that’s both comforting and mouthwatering?
how to make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and sear them in the skillet until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and transfer the skillet to the oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
how to serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs hot from the oven. They pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Drizzle any extra sauce from the skillet over the chicken to enhance the flavor and presentation.
how to store Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken tender.
tips to make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor and moisture.
- You can add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for added taste.
- For a crispier skin, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of baking.
- Adjust the garlic according to your preference; more garlic gives a stronger flavor.
variation
You can easily turn this recipe into a creamy mushroom chicken dish by adding sautéed mushrooms when you add the garlic to the sauce. Additionally, feel free to replace the Parmesan cheese with other cheeses that melt well, such as mozzarella or Gouda.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require a shorter cooking time. Be sure to check for doneness to prevent overcooking.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten products.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, store them separately in the refrigerator, and then bake them together when you’re ready to serve.
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken thighs Bone-in for extra flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adjust according to preference.
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Can be substituted with other melting cheeses.
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- to taste Parsley, for garnish
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and sear them in the skillet until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and transfer the skillet to the oven.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.