This creamy garlic chicken recipe features juicy, tender chicken thighs baked in a rich and flavorful creamy garlic sauce. It’s an easy and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- Main Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried rosemary
- Olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 large onion, minced
- 5 large cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 small cubes of chicken bouillon
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, dried basil, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. This ensures the chicken is well-flavored throughout.
3. Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear until the skin is crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Searing the chicken locks in the juices and adds a delicious crispy texture.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Add the minced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. This step creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This helps to thicken the sauce.
5. Make it Creamy:
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chicken bouillon cubes. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. The combination of milk, cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce.
6. Bake the Chicken:
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, nestling them into the sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C). Baking the chicken in the sauce ensures it remains juicy and flavorful.
7. Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and parsley into the sauce. The fresh herbs add a bright and aromatic finish to the dish.
- Serve the creamy garlic chicken thighs over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, spooning the sauce over the top. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy and Convenient: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of seared chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and fresh herbs creates a dish that’s both rich in flavor and incredibly satisfying.
Versatile: Serve this chicken with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, to suit your preference and make a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken
Sear Properly: Ensure the chicken thighs are seared until golden brown and crispy. This step adds flavor and texture to the dish.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, basil, and parsley enhance the flavor of the sauce and the overall dish.
Check Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) to guarantee it’s cooked through and safe to eat.
Serving Suggestions
With Mashed Potatoes: Serve the chicken thighs over creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the rich garlic sauce to blend with the potatoes.
With Rice: Pair the chicken with fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
With Pasta: Serve the chicken over your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Chicken Thighs: A great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The skin-on, bone-in thighs are flavorful and juicy.
Garlic: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and adds a robust flavor to the dish.
Onions: Onions are high in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
This easy baked creamy garlic chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich, flavorful sauce and tender, juicy chicken, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade comfort food!