Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs is one of those dishes that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. I first discovered this recipe during a cozy evening at home, searching for a meal that felt special yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The moment the rich aroma of garlic and chicken filled my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon something remarkable. The perfect balance of creamy sauce and flavorful chicken thighs makes this dish a top choice for both family dinners and gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe embodies everything you could want in a meal—it’s quick to prepare, affordable, and comfortingly indulgent. The creamy garlic sauce elevates the chicken to a new level of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s adaptable enough for both busy weeknights or slow Sundays when you want to treat yourself.

“I made this last Sunday, and my family couldn’t stop raving about it! It’s definitely going into my regular rotation.” – Sarah, home cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs is a straightforward process that flows beautifully from start to finish. You’ll begin by searing the chicken to golden perfection, then create a luscious garlic sauce that marries beautifully with the meat. This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings or last-minute dinner plans.

What You’ll Need

Here’s the ingredient list for this mouthwatering recipe:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (About 2 lbs)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Feel free to substitute low-fat cream for a lighter version or use chicken breasts if that’s your preference. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly for different cuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 6-8 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
Cook Through: Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low, add the unsalted butter, and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow it to simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
Create the Creamy Base: Stir in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Lower the heat and mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the garlic cream sauce over each piece. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs alongside sautéed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad with vinaigrette. Pairs beautifully with crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce, or even creamy mashed potatoes to keep the comfort levels high.

How to Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For long-lasting freshness, you can freeze the chicken in the sauce for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy texture.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for a couple of hours before cooking.
If you desire a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Always let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.

Recipe Variations

There are many creative twists you can explore with this recipe! Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk, or use cauliflower cream for a delicious dairy-free version. Want some extra zing? A splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the meal wonderfully.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prep this dish?

Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking takes around 20 minutes, making the total time around 30 minutes.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they will cook faster.

What if I have leftover sauce?

Store the sauce separately from the chicken to maintain its quality. It can be used as a pasta sauce or drizzled over veggies.

Now that you have the complete guide to making Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs, it’s time for you to create this comforting dish in your own kitchen. Enjoy the experience and the delightful flavors that await!