Description
These Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are the ultimate comfort food — juicy, tender chicken thighs baked in a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for cozy weeknights. It’s a one-pan wonder that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread!
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in or boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear chicken thighs, skin-side down (if using bone-in), for 3–4 minutes until golden. Flip and cook another 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Return chicken to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor, but boneless thighs work great too.
- Don’t skip the sear! It locks in moisture and adds flavor.
- Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for a veggie boost.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American