Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. The mix of tender chicken and a rich creamy sauce makes this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights or special family dinners. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, the ingredients are simple and can be found in most kitchens.
How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Place the chicken thighs back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.
How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Serve the Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs hot from the oven. They pair wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve them with steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The creamy sauce is perfect for drizzling over your side dishes as well.
How to Store Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it. Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs for a few hours before cooking.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts if you prefer. Additionally, try experimenting with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since they cook faster than thighs.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, store them separately, and then bake when you are ready to serve.
3. How can I make the sauce a bit spicier?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce to give it an extra kick.
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Place the chicken thighs back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.