Deliciously Easy Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs for Comforting Weeknight Dinners

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that’s both creamy and satisfying, and these Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs hit all the right notes.

Tender chicken thighs bathed in a rich, velvety sauce create a meal that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to whip up.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredient List

For this Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe, I gather the following ingredients:

Chicken and Marinade

• 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• Fresh parsley chopped for garnish

I ensure all these ingredients are ready before I start cooking. This makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken thighs cook evenly and develop a nice golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs
   Next, I gently pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy. I season both sides generously with salt pepper paprika garlic powder and onion powder.
3. Sear the Chicken
   In a large oven-safe skillet I heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering I add the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down. I sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Then I flip them over and sear for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Remove the Chicken
   After searing I transfer the chicken thighs to a plate and set them aside. I leave the drippings in the skillet for flavor.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
   In the same skillet I lower the heat to medium and add 4 minced garlic cloves. I sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then I pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and scrape all the delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan. I bring it to a simmer before adding 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. I stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce
   Once the sauce is ready I return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet skin-side up. I spoon some of the creamy sauce over each thigh to keep them extra moist and flavorful.
7. Bake the Chicken
   I carefully place the skillet in the preheated oven. I bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The skin will get crispy while the chicken stays tender and juicy.
8. Garnish and Serve
   Once baked I remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. I sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Now my creamy oven-baked chicken thighs are ready to be served.

Recipe Notes & Variations

This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are some helpful notes and variations to consider:

Cooking Time Adjustments

• Cooking time may vary based on the size of your chicken thighs. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• If using boneless thighs, reduce the baking time by about 10-15 minutes for optimal tenderness.

Dairy Alternatives

• I sometimes switch heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version. This adds a subtle sweetness and richness.
• For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream without compromising too much on creaminess.

Seasoning Variations

• Feel free to experiment with different seasonings based on your taste. Lemon zest or smoked paprika can add a fresh twist.
• Adding some heat? Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

Vegetable Additions

• I love tossing in some chopped vegetables. Carrots zucchini or bell peppers roast beautifully in the oven along with the chicken. Add vegetables to the baking dish for added color and nutrition.

Parmesan Substitutes

• If I don’t have Parmesan on hand, substitutes like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast work surprisingly well. They still provide a savory depth to the sauce.

Leftovers

• This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. I love reheating it gently in a skillet on medium-low heat to maintain moisture in the chicken.

• Serve over rice pasta or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. I also enjoy pairing it with a fresh garden salad for added crunch.

These notes and variations allow for personalization, ensuring that every batch of my creamy oven baked chicken thighs fits my flavor profile perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying my Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, the possibilities are endless. I love to serve this dish with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some of my favorite serving ideas:

1. Rice or Quinoa

I often serve the chicken thighs over a bed of fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa. This allows the creamy sauce to soak into the grains, making every bite delightful. For a bit of a twist, I’ll use lemon-infused rice for an added zing.

2. Mashed Potatoes

There’s something comforting about creamy mashed potatoes alongside this dish. I whip them up with a touch of butter and cream for extra indulgence. The silky texture pairs perfectly with the crunchy chicken skin and the savory sauce.

3. Pasta

For a heartier meal, I love tossing my pasta of choice—like fettuccine or penne—in the creamy sauce. The chicken pieces and sauce cling beautifully to the pasta, creating a deliciously satisfying plate.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Adding a side of roasted vegetables enhances the meal. I typically roast carrots, broccoli, or green beans until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. The bright flavors and crunch provide a lovely contrast to the creamy chicken.

5. Fresh Salad

A crisp salad adds a refreshing element to balance the richness. I usually toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the creaminess and brightens up the meal.

6. Crusty Bread

I can’t resist serving a slice of warm crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, ensuring not a drop goes to waste.

7. Garnish

Lastly, I always add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top of the chicken for a pop of color and a fresh flavor. It elevates the dish visually and adds a lovely herbaceous note.

By mixing and matching these serving ideas, I can create a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress my family and friends.

Nutrition Information

I always find it helpful to know the nutrition facts for meals I prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for my Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe. This will give you a clearer picture of what you’re serving.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1 Chicken Thigh)
Calories	400
Total Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	12g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	600mg
Total Carbohydrates	5g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Sugars	1g
Protein	34g

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and their quantities.

The chicken thighs provide a good source of protein while the heavy cream and cheese contribute to the richness of the dish.

If you want to lighten it up a bit, consider substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or half-and-half.

Adjusting the portion size can also help manage the calorie intake while still enjoying this delicious meal.

Pairing the dish with healthy sides like a fresh salad or steamed vegetables can create a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

I love to experiment with different side dishes to boost the overall health benefits while still enjoying the creamy goodness of the chicken thighs.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try these creamy oven baked chicken thighs. They’re not just a meal but an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.

With their tender texture and rich sauce they’ll surely become a go-to for busy weeknights or special family dinners.

Feel free to get creative with the recipe and make it your own. Whether you choose to pair it with rice pasta or roasted veggies the possibilities are endless.

So grab your ingredients and enjoy a delightful cooking adventure that ends with a delicious feast. Happy cooking!

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