If you’re looking for a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that’s both simple and impressive, these Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are the answer. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are baked in a rich, velvety sauce that’s bursting with garlic, herbs, and creaminess. This recipe has been trending lately because it combines homestyle comfort food with restaurant-worthy flavor, all made in just one pan. Perfect for weeknights or family dinners, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Juicy and flavorful – Oven-baked chicken thighs stay tender while soaking up all the creamy sauce.
- One-pan convenience – Easy prep and minimal cleanup make this perfect for busy nights.
- Rich and comforting – The creamy sauce adds indulgence without being too heavy.
- Beginner-friendly – Simple steps make this a no-fail recipe for any home cook.
- Family-approved – Even picky eaters love the cheesy, garlicky flavors.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Chicken thighs – Bone-in or boneless; they stay juicy and tender when baked.
- Heavy cream – Provides a silky, rich base for the sauce.
- Garlic – Adds bold flavor and depth to the creamy sauce.
- Butter – Enhances richness and helps brown the chicken.
- Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for nutty, savory flavor.
- Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) – Brighten the dish and balance the richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Preheat oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken – Pat chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
- Sear chicken – Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet, then sear the chicken skin-side down until golden brown. Flip and cook briefly on the other side.
- Make the creamy sauce – Add garlic to the pan, cook until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan and fresh herbs.
- Bake – Nestle chicken thighs into the sauce. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.
- Serve – Garnish with extra herbs and serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Expert Tip: To avoid curdling, let the cream come to room temperature before adding it to the hot pan.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Spicy kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Mushroom lovers – Stir in sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Low-carb option – Serve over cauliflower rice or roasted veggies instead of potatoes or pasta.
- Cheesy twist – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top before baking for a golden cheesy crust.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze – Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat – Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Similar Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed these Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, you’ll want to try more comforting and flavor-packed chicken recipes! For a sweet and savory twist, check out this Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack. If you’re a fan of creamy dishes, you’ll love the slow-cooked goodness of Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. And for an easy weeknight dinner, don’t miss this Ranch Chicken Creamy Crockpot recipe. Each one is simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing with family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, reduce the baking time slightly to prevent drying out.
Do I need to cover the chicken while baking?
No, leaving it uncovered helps the chicken brown and the sauce thicken.
What sides go best with this dish?
Creamy mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or a simple green salad pair perfectly.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
These Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or follow along for more delicious recipes!
Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbscor oregano/thyme
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.