If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels both comforting and a touch indulgent, look no further than this Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe. It brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce baked to golden perfection. The combination of simple ingredients creates a harmony of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible dish that’s easy enough for beginners but special enough to serve for guests. Once you try it, this will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simplicity with ingredients that each play a vital role—bringing flavor, creaminess, or richness to the dish. Having quality basics on hand guarantees that the Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly every time.

Chicken thighs (skinless & boneless): The star of the dish, chosen for their juicy texture and ability to stay tender during baking.
21 Salute Seasoning (or poultry seasoning): Adds a balanced blend of herbs and spices to elevate the chicken’s flavor effortlessly.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
Butter: Used twice—once for searing the chicken and once to build the rich sauce base.
Garlic (finely chopped): Provides an aromatic punch that complements the creaminess beautifully.
Flour: Helps thicken the sauce so it clings perfectly to the chicken.
Chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory background to the creamy sauce.
Heavy whipping cream: Key for that signature silky, velvety texture that makes this dish so indulgent.
Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty flavor and enriches the sauce even further.
Dill (optional garnish): A fresh, herbaceous touch that brightens both flavor and presentation.

How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat and Season the Chicken

Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit—this will give the chicken enough time to cook evenly once it’s in the oven. Meanwhile, season your skinless, boneless chicken thighs generously with the 21 Salute Seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures the chicken is flavorful from the inside out.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In an oven-proof skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This initial sear locks in the juices and builds a flavorful base before baking. Once seared, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Now, it’s time to make that dreamy creamy sauce that defines this dish. In the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about a minute, stirring often so it doesn’t brown but releases its fragrant aroma.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle in the flour while stirring constantly to create a roux—this will thicken the sauce perfectly. Cook it for about a minute to remove any raw flour taste. Then, slowly add chicken broth while stirring, allowing the sauce to thicken and become glossy.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy whipping cream and stir to combine. Immediately add the Parmesan cheese, watching it melt into a richly creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This sauce is where the magic happens: it’s silky, cheesy, and bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken in the Creamy Sauce

Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, making sure each piece is generously coated with that delicious creamy sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The oven completes the cooking beautifully, marrying the flavors together.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, garnish with freshly chopped dill and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. This final touch not only looks stunning but adds a burst of fresh herb flavor that balances the richness.

How to Serve Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like dill or parsley enhance both the visual appeal and flavor, cutting through the creamy sauce’s richness. A few extra parmesan shavings right before serving also add a nice texture contrast and savory pop.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a light salad to contrast the creaminess. For more hearty accompaniments, buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta are excellent choices to soak up the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party vibe, serve this dish directly in the skillet on a wooden trivet, letting guests help themselves. Alternatively, plate each chicken thigh over a bed of garlic-infused rice or drizzled with extra sauce, and garnish with edible flowers or a sprig of fresh herbs for a restaurant-style touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so it tastes even better once reheated gently.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the sauce creamy and avoid separation.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stovetop or in the oven. Stir occasionally and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce becomes too thick. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain the sauce’s silky texture.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs will add extra flavor but may require a slightly longer baking time to ensure they are fully cooked. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F.

Is there a dairy-free option for the cream and cheese?

You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be different but still delicious and creamy!

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop only?

While the oven gives the chicken a great finish, you can simmer the chicken covered on low heat in the creamy sauce on the stovetop. Just be sure the chicken is cooked through and tender before serving.

What if I don’t have 21 Salute Seasoning?

No worries! Any poultry seasoning blend or a mix of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and paprika will work well. The seasoning just adds an extra layer of flavor to the chicken.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?

Yes, this recipe scales up wonderfully. Just use a larger oven-proof dish or skillet and adjust baking times as needed. Make sure the chicken pieces aren’t too crowded for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day—simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. Once you get the hang of the steps, it becomes an effortless way to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special. Give it a try and discover how a handful of everyday ingredients can come together in such a delicious, creamy celebration of chicken!

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 25 reviews

Author: Elara
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 5 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs baked in a rich and velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for an easy yet flavorful weeknight dinner, the dish is seasoned simply with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper, then coated in a luscious sauce made with butter, garlic, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh dill for a touch of brightness, this comforting meal pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Instructions

Preheat and season: First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken thighs evenly on both sides with the 21 Salute Seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Sear chicken: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden brown color. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Prepare the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally to release aroma without browning the garlic.
Make roux and thicken sauce: Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the butter and garlic mixture. Stir continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
Add liquids and cheese: Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly. Then, pour in 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream, stir well, and add 1/2 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
Bake the chicken: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, coating them evenly with the creamy sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
Garnish and serve: Once baked, garnish the dish with finely chopped dill and additional grated Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, creamy chicken meal!

Notes

You can substitute 21 Salute Seasoning with any poultry seasoning or your favorite herbs for similar flavor.
Be sure to use an oven-proof skillet (like cast iron) to sear and bake the chicken in the same pan.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
If Parmesan is not available, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can be used as alternatives.
To ensure chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer and confirm a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice to soak up the creamy sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking and Searing
Cuisine: American