Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into a comforting, restaurant-quality dinner. Juicy chicken thighs are seared until golden, then baked in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. From stovetop to oven in under an hour, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet elegant – Everyday chicken thighs are elevated with a luscious cream sauce.
- Quick to make – From prep to plate in less than 1 hour.
- One-pan dinner – Easy cooking and easy cleanup.
- Versatile – Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or veggies.
If you’ve tried my Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs or Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs, you know how much I love cooking with this cut of chicken. But there’s just something extra cozy about creamy garlic sauces, especially when the weather cools down. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my kitchen—and I’m sure it will in yours too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs – quicker cooking and tender results.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – for searing.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (like Trader Joe’s 21 Salute)
- Salt & pepper – to taste.
For the Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – for the sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped – fragrant and flavorful.
- 2 tablespoons flour – helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth – adds depth.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream – for creaminess.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (or Piave) – freshly grated melts best.
- Salt & pepper – to taste.
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped – optional garnish.
How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken: In an oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Sear chicken thighs for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth and thickened. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and bake: Return chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh dill and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Cooking Tips
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning for a better sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning—work in batches if needed.
- Flavor boost: Swap chicken broth for dry white wine (alcohol cooks off).
- Add veggies: Stir in sliced mushrooms or spinach for a creamy garlic veggie variation.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the oven baking time by about 10–15 minutes.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Cook fully, cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
Can I freeze it?
This dish freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
More Creamy Chicken Recipes to Try
- Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
- One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala (dairy-free option!)
📖 Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~583 per serving
Ingredients
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning (or Trader Joe’s 21 Salute)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for searing)
Cream Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tsp fresh dill (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken with salt, pepper, and seasoning.
- Sear chicken in butter for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter, then stir in flour. Slowly whisk in broth.
- Add cream and Parmesan; season to taste.
- Return chicken to skillet, coat with sauce, and bake 30–35 minutes until cooked through.
- Garnish with dill and extra cheese before serving.