These creamy oven-baked chicken thighs are super juicy and full of flavor! Each bite is covered in a rich, delicious sauce that pairs perfectly with rice or veggies.
Making this dish is a breeze! Just season the chicken, pour on the creamy goodness, and pop it in the oven. You’ll feel like a master chef with minimal effort! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are my go-to for flavor and tenderness. If you prefer boneless or skinless to reduce fat, that works too, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Heavy Cream: This adds that creamy texture. In a pinch, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free substitute like coconut cream, though the flavor will change a little.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice tang. If you don’t have Dijon, you can use yellow mustard or omit it for a milder sauce.
Fresh Herbs: Dill or parsley works great for garnish. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried versions can also add flavor, just use less as they’re more potent.
How Can You Achieve Perfectly Searing Chicken Thighs?
Searing your chicken thighs properly is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This helps create a nice crust.
- Place thighs skin-side down without overcrowding to let them brown evenly. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden.
- Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. If the skin sticks to the pan, wait a bit longer before flipping.
- Don’t skip resting the chicken after baking! It helps keep the juices locked in.
How to Make Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake in the oven. So, you’re looking at a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a comforting weekday meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and nicely in the oven.
2. Season the Chicken Thighs:
Take a large oven-safe skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Make sure they are well coated with the seasoning for great flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Allow them to sear for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown. After that, flip the thighs over and sear the other side for about 5 minutes. This step adds a lovely crispy texture to the skin.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard until everything is well blended and creamy. This is where your sauce gets its rich flavor!
5. Combine and Bake:
Pour the creamy mixture over the seared chicken thighs in the skillet, ensuring they’re well covered. Then, carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish and Serve:
When the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the creamy chicken thighs with the sauce drizzled over rice, pasta, or your favorite sides. Enjoy this comforting meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but keep in mind they may cook faster! Reduce the oven baking time to about 20-25 minutes and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (combine 1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of melted butter). Just note that the sauce will be a bit less rich and creamy, but still delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sear it ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. Add the creamy sauce right before baking. Just allow some extra baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge when you put it in the oven.
