Jump to Recipe Print RecipeStepping into my kitchen, the inviting aroma of garlic and herbs wraps around me like a warm hug, instantly lifting my spirits. Today, I’m diving into a comforting classic with a twist: Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs. This dish is a delightful fusion of home-cooked goodness and restaurant flair, featuring succulent chicken enveloped in a rich, velvety cream sauce. The best part? It’s all made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re looking for an effortless weeknight dinner or something special for family gatherings, this creamy delight is sure to win hearts and satisfy appetites. Are you ready to create a new favorite meal that’s as simple as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking! Why Are Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Amazing? Easy Prep: This recipe is hassle-free, letting you spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights! Rich and Creamy: The luscious garlic-herb cream sauce elevates ordinary chicken thighs into a comforting dish that’ll have your loved ones coming back for seconds. Versatile Serving Options: Pair these Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with creamy mashed potatoes or a refreshing green salad for a well-rounded meal. One-Pan Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan, making it ideal for busy cooks. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, the savory flavors will impress everyone at the table. Try serving it alongside my Cheesy Baked Ziti for a delightful feast! Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Ingredients For the Chicken • Bone-in Skinless Chicken Thighs – The star of the dish, they are juicier than chicken breasts and perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. • Olive Oil – A flavorful cooking fat that helps to brown the chicken beautifully. For the Cream Sauce • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and can be substituted with more olive oil for a dairy-free version. • Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile. Always use fresh for the best aroma! • Heavy Cream – Creates the velvety sauce; coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute. • Chicken Broth – Adds depth and moisture to the sauce; opt for low-sodium for healthier cooking. • Grated Parmesan Cheese – Offers added creaminess; feel free to use a dairy-free alternative if desired. For Seasoning • Paprika – A mild seasoning that gives the dish beautiful color and subtle flavor. • Dried Italian Herbs (Oregano/Thyme) – Essential for boosting the sauce’s flavor; a sprinkle works wonders. • Salt – A basic seasoning to adjust according to your taste preference. • Black Pepper – For a little kick; freshly ground is ideal to elevate flavor. For Garnish • Fresh Parsley or Dill – Adds a fresh touch and visual appeal right before serving. Now you’re just a few ingredients away from creating comforting Oven Baked Chicken Thighs that are sure to please! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs cook evenly and reach that perfect tender texture. As the oven warms, gather your ingredients and tools, including an oven-safe skillet for the next steps. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Pat the bone-in skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help achieve a beautiful sear. Season them generously with paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning will enhance the flavors of your Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, creating a deliciously savory dish. Step 3: Sear the Chicken In your preheated skillet, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, searing each side for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown. This step seals in the juices and adds a scrumptious crust before baking. Remove the chicken and set it aside. Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Next, stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan, and dried Italian herbs. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, thickening into a rich, creamy sauce. Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the cream sauce. Spoon the sauce over the top, ensuring each piece is coated. This not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also allows the sauce to work its magic as it bakes. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened. Watch for that mouthwatering golden color on the chicken, signaling it’s ready to serve! Step 7: Garnish and Serve Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish your Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy the warm comfort of this one-pan meal that is sure to delight your family and friends! Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Variations Feel free to make this recipe your own with these exciting twists and substitutes, enhancing the flavors and tailoring it to your family’s tastes. Lean Option: Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a lighter dish; reduce baking time slightly to keep them juicy. Whether you’re watching calories or just prefer a leaner cut, this swap still delivers on flavor. Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a rich, dairy-free sauce. The coconut adds a hint of sweetness and unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the herbs. Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. Feel free to mix in any seasonal veggies you love—bell peppers or zucchini work wonderfully here! Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat. Transform your creamy dish into a comforting feast with just a touch of spice that awakens the palate. Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of Italian herbs for a completely new flavor profile. Fresh herbs brighten up the dish, making it even more aromatic and delicious. Lemon Zing: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds brightness and balance to the creamy sauce. This lift will tantalize those taste buds and make the flavors pop, perfect for those who love a zesty note! Nutty Flavor: Toasted walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch and richness. Not only does it elevate the dish, but the added texture is a wonderful surprise. Hearty Grain: Serve the oven baked chicken with quinoa or farro instead of traditional sides for a nutrient-rich twist. These grains soak up the flavorful sauce perfectly, adding heartiness to your meal. If you’re looking for more inspiration, my Chicken Bacon Ranch or Creamy Baked Ziti are sure to please your crowd! How to Store and Freeze Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Fridge: Store your leftover Oven Baked Chicken Thighs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure the sauce is chilled before sealing to maintain its creamy texture. Freezer: If you want to freeze the dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to 3 months. Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing to preserve flavor and quality. Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes, to keep the chicken juicy and the sauce creamy. Microwave can be used; cover and heat in short bursts, ensuring even warming. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, which helps maintain the delicious flavor and creamy consistency. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the seasoning (paprika, salt, and pepper) up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, prepare the creamy sauce by cooking the garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, and herbs ahead of time; this can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the marinated chicken with the prepped sauce in an oven-safe skillet, bake until perfectly cooked, and enjoy a hassle-free, delicious meal that feels fresh and comforting. What to Serve with Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delectable dish with sides that accentuate its rich flavors and comforting nature. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of these potatoes complements the velvety sauce, making every bite satisfyingly rich. Their creamy texture takes comfort food to new heights! Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread brings both a delightful crunch and a savory aroma to your table, perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce. Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add a pop of color and a fresh, crisp contrast to the dish. Their subtle earthiness balances the creamy chicken beautifully. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots provide a burst of vibrancy and natural sweetness, offering an enjoyable flavor depth beside the savory chicken. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, croutons, and tangy dressing gives a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the sauce, keeping the meal balanced. Chardonnay: This white wine’s buttery notes echo the sauce’s creaminess, while its crisp acidity refreshes the palate, making it a delightful beverage choice alongside your chicken. Lemon Tart: A tangy dessert like lemon tart contrasts perfectly with the savory flavor of the chicken, wrapping up the meal on a bright and refreshing note. Let your meal shine with these wonderful pairings that truly enhance the comforting delight of Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs! Expert Tips for Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Room Temperature Cream: Allow cream to come to room temperature before adding it to the skillet to prevent curdling in your sauce. Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! It enhances the flavor and texture of the Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, creating a delicious crust. Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the cream sauce. Avoid Covering: Leave the chicken uncovered while baking. This helps achieve a nice browning and thickens the sauce, making it more flavorful. Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before baking and adjust the seasoning. Everyone’s palate is different, so add salt or herbs as needed! Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs What type of chicken thighs should I use? Absolutely! Bone-in skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they are juicier than chicken breasts and soak up the rich flavor of the creamy sauce beautifully. How long can I store the leftover Oven Baked Chicken Thighs? You can store your leftover Oven Baked Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the sauce is cooled before sealing, which helps maintain its creamy texture. Can I freeze Oven Baked Chicken Thighs? Yes, you can! Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. What are some common issues I might face while making this dish? If your cream sauce curdles, it may be because it was added too cold. To avoid this, let it come to room temperature before incorporating it into the skillet. Another common issue is if the chicken isn’t browning properly. Ensure your oil is hot enough when searing, as that creates a deliciously appealing crust. Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies? Certainly! To make it dairy-free, you can swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream and use more olive oil instead of butter. You’ll still achieve a creamy texture and delightful flavor without the dairy ingredients. Oven Baked Chicken Thighs: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a creamy, comforting dish that combines succulent chicken with a rich sauce, perfect for any dinner occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 thighsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Bone-in Skinless Chicken Thighs2 tablespoons Olive OilFor the Cream Sauce2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can be substituted with more olive oil4 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh garlic enhances flavor1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream is a dairy-free substitute1 cup Chicken Broth Opt for low-sodium1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use dairy-free alternative if desiredFor Seasoning1 teaspoon Paprika1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs (Oregano/Thyme)1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground is idealFor Garnish2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley or Dill Adds color and flavor Equipment oven-safe skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients and tools, including an oven-safe skillet.Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.In your preheated skillet, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.In the same skillet, reduce heat and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, simmering for 2-3 minutes.Return chicken to skillet, nestling into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the chicken to coat.Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes and garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1thighCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, allow cream to come to room temperature before adding, and don't skip the searing step for enhanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
