These Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are the perfect mix of comfort and elegance — ready in under an hour and made in just one pan. Tender boneless chicken thighs are seared until golden, then smothered in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce that’s so good you’ll want to swipe your plate clean. This recipe makes an easy weeknight dinner feel restaurant-worthy, and it’s just as great for special occasions or cozy winter nights.
If you love chicken thigh recipes, this one will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation. It’s flavorful, simple, and incredibly satisfying!
💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: From stovetop to oven in under an hour.
- One-pan convenience: Less mess and faster cleanup.
- Ultra creamy sauce: Garlic, butter, and Parmesan create dreamy flavor.
- Boneless chicken thighs cook fast: Juicy and tender every time.
- Perfect comfort food: Great for cold-weather dinners or when you want something cozy.
🧂 Ingredients Needed
For the Chicken
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, patted dry
- 1 teaspoon 21 Salute seasoning (or any poultry seasoning)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or Piave)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill, for garnish (optional)
🔥 How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
1. Season the Chicken
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry, then season both sides with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken
In an oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden. Remove to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring so it doesn’t burn.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bake to Perfection
Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling and creamy.
5. Garnish & Serve
Finish with chopped dill and extra Parmesan if you like. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
🍽️ Tips for Success
- Pat the chicken dry for the best sear and optimal flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet — brown the chicken in batches for even cooking.
- Enhance the sauce by adding sliced mushrooms or swapping broth for white wine.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.
❓ Recipe FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes.
Can I substitute the cream?
Half-and-half works, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and sear the chicken, then refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
🍗 More Easy Chicken Recipes
- Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
- One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Creamy Chicken Mushroom Recipe
- Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs