Description
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
1 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and
cook for another 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and let simmer for 2 minutes.
Return chicken thighs to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, and transfer to the oven.
Bake for 20 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 450 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels—this is crucial for a crispy sear. Season them generously on both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet skin-side down. Do not move them for 5-6 minutes to achieve a deep golden-brown crust. Flip and cook for 3 more minutes, then transfer to a plate.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the pan bottom. This is called deglazing and is key for the sauce. Whisk in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce begins to simmer and thicken slightly, about 2 minutes.
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each piece. Carefully transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy garlic parmesan chicken is incredibly versatile. For a classic comfort meal, serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple side salad. A crusty baguette is also perfect for mopping up every last bit of the creamy parmesan sauce from your plate.
How-to Summary
Sear seasoned chicken thighs until golden. Sauté garlic in butter, then deglaze the pan with broth. Create the sauce by simmering with cream and parmesan. Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over, and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until cooked through. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts? Yes, but adjust cooking times. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side and reduce oven time to 15 minutes to prevent drying out.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk works surprisingly well.
I don’t have an oven-safe skillet. What can I do? After making the sauce in your regular skillet, transfer everything to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce a few hours in advance. Store separately, then combine and bake when ready to serve for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken, as this steams the skin instead of crisping it. Do not burn the garlic when sautéing; cook it just until fragrant. Ensure your skillet is truly oven-safe (no plastic handles). Finally, do not skip the step of scraping up the browned bits (fond) from the pan after searing, as this adds immense depth of flavor to the sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish that is deceptively simple to make at home. The combination of crispy, seasoned skin, tender meat, and a luxuriously rich sauce is guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a perfectly balanced, impressive meal every time. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a flavorful, comforting dinner that the whole family will love.
