Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs is a rich, indulgent dish featuring crispy pan-seared chicken thighs smothered in a velvety garlic-parmesan cream sauce. This one-pan meal is both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the perfect combination of crispy golden-brown chicken and a deeply flavorful cream sauce made with fresh garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of herbs. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner gathering. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from pasta to mashed potatoes or vegetables.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, skin-on if desired
• Olive oil or unsalted butter
• Fresh garlic, minced
• Chicken broth or stock
• Heavy cream
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

directions

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down first until golden and crispy, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, reduce the heat slightly and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, and simmer on low for an additional 5–10 minutes until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a lighter option
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the cream sauce for extra depth
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter consistency
• Replace parmesan with pecorino romano for a sharper flavor
• For a low-carb version, serve with cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring the sauce to restore consistency. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the dairy-based sauce, which may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but be careful not to overcook them as they are leaner and dry out more easily.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream provides the richest texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter for a lighter sauce.

How do I make the chicken skin crispy?
Make sure to pat the chicken dry before searing and cook it skin-side down first in a hot pan without moving it for a few minutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving and stir the sauce to maintain its texture.

What kind of parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated parmesan from a block is recommended. Avoid pre-shredded varieties as they may not melt smoothly.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing it?
Yes. You can bake the chicken first and then finish it in the sauce on the stovetop. Alternatively, bake the entire dish in a casserole after adding the sauce.

Does the sauce thicken as it cools?
Yes, the sauce will naturally thicken slightly as it cools. If needed, you can loosen it with a little broth when reheating.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli make excellent additions to the sauce.

Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, as written it is low in carbs and suitable for a keto diet, especially when served with non-starchy sides.

What’s the best side dish to serve with it?
Mashed potatoes, buttered pasta, rice, or sautéed greens pair beautifully with the rich sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs is a luxurious and satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. With crispy golden chicken and a luscious garlic-infused sauce, this recipe brings comfort and flavor to the table with every bite. It’s a reliable go-to for when you want something hearty, indulgent, and unforgettable.

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