Description
This recipe features succulent skinless, boneless chicken thighs baked in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The thighs are first seared to a golden brown to lock in juices, then simmered in a luscious homemade cream sauce before baking to tender perfection. Garnished with fresh dill and extra cheese, this comforting oven-baked chicken dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 5 chicken thighs (skinless & boneless, dried with paper towel)
- 1 teaspoon 21 Salute Seasoning (or any poultry seasoning)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (or Prieve cheese, finely grated)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons dill (finely chopped, for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Season Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season both sides of the chicken thighs evenly with 21 Salute seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear Chicken: In an oven-proof skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown color. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make Creamy Sauce - Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
- Prepare Sauce Base: Sprinkle the flour into the butter and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for 1 minute to cook the flour and create a roux.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir for 1 minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Then, stir in the heavy whipping cream and mix well.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly. Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, carefully coating each piece with the creamy sauce.
- Bake: Place the skillet uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the sauce is bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from oven and optionally garnish with finely chopped dill and extra grated cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Using an oven-proof skillet eliminates the need to transfer the sauce and chicken, saving time and clean-up.
- Searing the chicken first locks in moisture and adds flavor through browning.
- Adjust seasoning at the end of the sauce to balance creaminess and saltiness.
- Fresh dill is optional but adds a bright herbal note that complements the creamy sauce.
- If you don’t have 21 Salute seasoning, any poultry or Italian seasoning blend works well.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking with a meat thermometer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American