Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful addition to any meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. These tender chicken thighs are seared to perfection and bathed in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that elevates their flavor. Whether you’re serving them with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, this recipe will impress your family and friends alike. The combination of simplicity and indulgence makes these Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these chicken thighs make for an easy weeknight meal.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce adds depth and richness, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with rice, vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests; everyone loves creamy chicken!
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make your cooking experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast Iron Skillet: Provides even heat distribution, perfect for searing chicken and finishing in the oven.
- Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.
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)
- 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 it’s hot enough to cook the chicken evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Next, season the chicken thighs generously with 21 Salute Seasoning along with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds great flavor from the start.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Now, melt butter in your oven-proof skillet over medium heat.
1. Add the seasoned chicken thighs.
2. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a golden color.
3. After searing, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
This method locks in juices while preparing you for the next step in creating that luscious creamy sauce!
How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious main course that can be paired with various sides to create a balanced meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and color to your plate.
- Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
On a Bed of Rice
- Wild Rice Pilaf – The nutty flavor of wild rice pairs well with the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Herb Rice – Fluffy rice infused with garlic and herbs enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty French Bread – Serve warm, crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Garlic Breadsticks – These add an extra layer of flavor and are perfect for dipping.
How to Perfect Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
To ensure your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose Quality Chicken – Use fresh, skinless, and boneless chicken thighs for the best texture and flavor.
- Preheat Your Skillet – Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a golden sear.
- Don’t Skip Seasoning – Properly seasoning both sides of the chicken enhances its taste significantly.
- Monitor Cooking Time – Keep an eye on cooking times to prevent overcooking and drying out the meat.
- Let It Rest – Allow the chicken to rest after baking for juicier results before slicing or serving.
- Experiment with Add-ins – Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the creamy sauce for added nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base for the chicken’s rich sauce.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness that balances out the heaviness of the dish.
- Sautéed Green Beans – Quick sautéed green beans bring color and crunch, enhancing your plate visually and nutritionally.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds a healthy twist that complements the flavors well.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of baked thighs.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob makes an easy and delightful addition, especially in summer months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes is key to making the perfect Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:
- Not drying the chicken thighs – Moisture on the chicken can prevent a good sear. Always pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
- Overcooking the chicken – This leads to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Skipping the seasoning – Insufficient seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t hesitate to season generously with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices.
- Using low-quality poultry broth – A poor broth can diminish flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken broth for a richer sauce.
- Neglecting the resting time – Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
- Make sure to label containers with date and contents.
Reheating Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently until hot.
- Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs:
How do I ensure my chicken thighs are juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, avoid overcooking them and let them rest after cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes! You can use bone-in thighs, but adjust cooking time as they may take longer to cook through compared to boneless ones.
What sides pair well with Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?
These delicious thighs pair perfectly with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I customize the creamy sauce?
Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or substitute different cheeses such as cheddar for varied flavors.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are an irresistible choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Their rich flavor and creamy sauce make them comforting and delicious. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices, ensuring it suits your taste perfectly. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is!
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 5
Description
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. These succulent, tender thighs are seared to perfection and enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that elevates their flavor profile. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, making it versatile and crowd-pleasing. With a mere 10 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table that will impress your family and friends alike. Experience the irresistible combination of simplicity and indulgence with this delightful recipe.
Ingredients
- 5 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of seasoning.
- In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and cook briefly before whisking in flour until smooth.
- Slowly add chicken broth and cream while stirring until combined; then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and transfer to the oven.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (160g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
