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Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Tender, juicy chicken thighs baked in a rich, herb-infused cream sauce that's perfect for comfort food dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 chicken thighs
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Seasonings
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
Cream Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 0.25 cup white wine optional
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. Combine paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Rub seasoning mixture all over chicken thighs, ensuring even coverage.
  4. Heat olive oil in large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  5. Cook chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Flip chicken and cook 3-4 minutes more, then remove from skillet and set aside.
  7. Add sliced onions to same skillet and cook 3-4 minutes until softened.
  8. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until aromatic.
  9. Sprinkle flour over onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
  10. Slowly add chicken broth and wine, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  11. Stir in heavy cream, thyme, and rosemary until well combined.
  12. Return chicken to skillet skin-side up and transfer to oven.
  13. Bake 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
  14. Rest 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For best results, bring chicken to room temperature before cooking. Don't skip the browning step as it creates the flavor foundation. Sauce will thicken upon standing.