Juicy, Golden, and Coated in a Rich Garlic Cream Sauce
Hola, my kitchen friend! If you’ve ever wanted to make a dish that feels like comfort in every bite, this Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is for you. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with a cozy aroma of butter, garlic, and herbs while giving you that golden, seared chicken goodness coated in a luscious, creamy sauce.
I first made this on a rainy evening in Orlando, and the entire family gathered around before it even came out of the oven.
There’s something about creamy baked chicken that just makes you slow down, smile, and savor.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time: | 45 minutes |
| Total Time: | 55 minutes |
| Servings: | 4 |
| Course: | Main Course |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Method: | Oven-baked |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy weeknight dinner: Simple ingredients, one oven-safe skillet, and a creamy finish that feels restaurant-worthy.
- Incredible flavor: Butter, garlic, and Parmesan bring rich, balanced taste to every bite.
- Perfectly juicy chicken: Searing locks in the juices so each piece stays tender.
- One-skillet cleanup: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup quick and easy.
- Family favorite: Even picky eaters love it, especially with mashed potatoes or rice.
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is a cozy, comforting meal with juicy seared chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s hearty, creamy, and full of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, patted dry
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (or Trader Joe’s 21 Salute Seasoning)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare an oven-safe skillet.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, melt 2 more tablespoons of butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add flour and stir continuously for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Add Parmesan cheese and continue to stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
7. Return chicken to the skillet, coating each thigh with sauce. Place skillet in the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Remove from oven, rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh dill and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help it brown evenly.
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing so each piece develops a golden crust.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat slowly over low heat for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
- Calories: 583
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 626
- Fat: 49
- Saturated Fat: 22
- Unsaturated Fat: 22
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 0.2
- Protein: 29
- Cholesterol: 212
Ingredients
For Chicken Thighs
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, patted dry
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (like Trader Joe’s 21 Salute)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (or other hard cheese, finely grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons dill, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs | Pat them completely dry for the best golden sear and even cooking. |
| Butter | Adds rich flavor and helps develop that perfect crust. |
| Garlic | Finely mince for even flavor throughout the sauce. |
| Parmesan | Freshly grated melts smoother and enhances the sauce texture. |
| Dill | Optional, but adds a bright herbal finish that complements the creamy sauce. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F and make sure your skillet is oven-safe.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle both sides with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 more tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring often.
- Add flour and broth: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Let the mixture simmer for another minute until slightly thickened.
- Finish the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Bake the chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, coating each piece in sauce. Place the skillet in the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped dill and a bit more cheese before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help it brown beautifully.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing to ensure even cooking.
- Use an oven-safe skillet, like cast iron, for perfect stovetop-to-oven cooking.
- Let the chicken rest before serving so the juices redistribute.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use real butter: It gives the sauce that rich, velvety texture you can’t get from oil alone.
- Grate cheese fresh: It melts smoother and avoids clumping in the sauce.
- Whisk constantly: When adding flour and broth, whisk without stopping to keep the sauce lump-free.
- Simmer, don’t boil: Gentle heat ensures the cream stays smooth and silky.
Recipe Variations
- Spinach and mushroom version: Add ½ cup of sliced mushrooms and a handful of spinach for a veggie boost.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Lemon dill style: Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and extra dill for a fresh, bright flavor.
- Cheddar version: Swap Parmesan for sharp cheddar to create a richer, homestyle flavor.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
You can sear the chicken and make the sauce up to a day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator, then bake together when ready. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these creamy chicken thighs with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or buttered noodles. A crusty bread roll is perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
If you enjoy creamy and flavorful dinners, you’ll also love my Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia. It’s light, buttery, and filled with rich garlic flavor that melts in your mouth. This tilapia pairs beautifully with veggies, rice, or even a side of mashed potatoes, making it a simple yet elegant companion to these Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs.
Pairing Ideas
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic pairing, try sparkling water with lemon slices or a chilled herbal iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the oven until warm throughout. Add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, but adjust baking time to 40–45 minutes to ensure they cook fully.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute coconut cream and vegan butter, though flavor will change slightly.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but be sure not to overbake since breasts cook faster and can dry out.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, sear the chicken and prep the sauce ahead, then bake right before serving.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F, and juices should run clear.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight and reheat gently in the oven.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach blend beautifully with the creamy base.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size: | 1 chicken thigh with sauce |
|---|---|
| Calories: | 583 kcal |
| Protein: | 29 g |
| Carbohydrates: | 6 g |
| Fat: | 49 g |
| Saturated Fat: | 22 g |
| Cholesterol: | 212 mg |
| Sodium: | 626 mg |
| Sugar: | 1 g |
| Fiber: | 0.2 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary depending on brands and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary information.
Conclusion
This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is what comfort food dreams are made of. The buttery garlic sauce wraps around juicy chicken for a flavor that feels homemade and special every time. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this simple dish delivers pure satisfaction in every bite.
