Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy garlic sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering both comfort and sophistication. The unique blend of flavors makes it a standout choice for any occasion, ensuring your meal is memorable and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce infuses the chicken with delicious taste, elevating simple ingredients to gourmet levels.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it alongside rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that’s sure to impress.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and savory flavor, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential items to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Oven-proof skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Oven-proof skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken on the stovetop and then transfer it directly into the oven without needing extra dishes.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your creamy sauce.
Ingredients
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs -seared chicken thighs cooked in a creamy garlic sauce.
Chicken Thighs
- 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)
Sauce Ingredients
- 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)
Garnish
- 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 375F. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly throughout.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Next, season the chicken thighs with the seasoning mix, salt, and pepper on both sides. This step enhances their flavor before cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Now, melt butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. After searing, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
This simple yet flavorful dish will leave everyone asking for more!
How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs make for a delightful main course that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
Garlic Bread
- Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious creamy sauce from the chicken.
Steamed Vegetables
- Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrition to your plate while balancing flavors.
Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken thighs.
Rice Pilaf
- Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can absorb the juices from the chicken, making every bite flavorful.
Roasted Potatoes
- Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary enhance your meal’s texture and taste profile.
How to Perfect Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
To achieve the best results when making Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, consider these helpful tips:
- Use skinless thighs: Opting for skinless chicken thighs allows the creamy sauce to penetrate the meat better.
- Sear properly: Ensure you sear the chicken until golden brown for added flavor before baking.
- Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the garlic and flour to cook slightly before adding liquids; this enhances flavor and prevents raw flour taste.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce as you prepare it; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Pairing your creamy chicken thighs with suitable sides can enhance your dining experience. Consider these delicious options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich and creamy, they complement the savory chicken perfectly.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts offers a nice contrast to the rich sauce.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option that provides a light, fluffy texture alongside your hearty main dish.
- Creamed Spinach: This classic side adds creaminess while keeping it simple and delicious.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn balances out the flavors and is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and brightness, making each bite more enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken thighs properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen seasoning blend.
- Not preheating the oven: Cooking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing the chicken inside for the best results.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken thighs for too long can dry them out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly juicy thighs.
- Neglecting the sauce: A creamy sauce is key to this recipe’s appeal. Don’t rush the sauce-making process; allow it to simmer and thicken for maximum flavor.
- Ignoring garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs can make your dish less visually appealing and flavorful. Add a sprinkle of dill or parsley just before serving for that extra touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes, until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking often to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs that may help you while cooking.
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, bone-in chicken thighs work well too. Just increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.
How do I make this dish healthier?
To lighten it up, use low-fat cream or yogurt instead of heavy whipping cream and reduce the butter amount.
What side dishes pair well with Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?
Roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad complement this dish nicely.
How To Bake Chicken Thighs In The Oven without drying them out?
Make sure not to overcook and use a meat thermometer for perfect results—165°F is ideal!
Final Thoughts
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices. This recipe offers comfort food vibes while being simple enough for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes 5 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delectable fusion of juicy chicken and a luxurious garlic cream sauce, making this dish perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests. The combination of tender chicken thighs and rich flavors elevates everyday meals into something special. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 5 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (like Trader Joe's 21 Salute)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Season the chicken thighs with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- In an oven-proof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and flour; cook briefly before adding chicken broth and cream. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
