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Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs - Image 3

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Juicy chicken thighs baked in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that's easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
  6. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
• Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent it from drying out; use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Food Safety:
• Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it's safely cooked.
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days.