Looking for a delicious and easy dish to impress your guests this holiday season? Look no further than these Simple Christmas Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs! This recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also simple to make, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of the juicy chicken thighs and creamy sauce creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
- The creamy sauce can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile recipe for meal prep.
Ingredient Notes:
For Chicken Thighs
- Chicken thighs (skinless & boneless, dried with paper towel): Provides a juicy and flavorful base for the dish.
- Salute Seasoning from Trader Joe’s (or any poultry seasoning of your choice): Adds a delicious blend of herbs and spices.
- Salt & pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Butter (unsalted): Adds richness and helps to brown the chicken.
For Creamy Sauce
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- Garlic (finely chopped): Infuses the sauce with a delicious aroma and flavor.
- Flour: Thickens the sauce to create a creamy texture.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Heavy whipping cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
- Parmesan cheese (or prieve cheese, finely grated): Adds a savory and cheesy flavor.
- Salt & pepper: Season to taste.
- Dill (finely chopped for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh and herby touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven and prepare the chicken thighs by seasoning them with Salute Seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, make the creamy sauce by sautéing garlic, adding flour, chicken broth, heavy whipping cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs and bake until cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped dill before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For a crispy skin on the chicken thighs, sear them in a hot skillet before baking.
- Customize the sauce by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Swap Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version of the dish.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture.
- Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer it on the stovetop before pouring it over the chicken.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with a side of roasted vegetables and a crisp salad for a complete meal. Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to retain the crispy texture of the chicken thighs and creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts for this recipe, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I freeze this dish? It is not recommended to freeze creamy dishes as the texture may change upon thawing.
- Can I use low-fat ingredients to make this recipe healthier? Yes, you can use low-fat cream and cheese for a lighter version of this dish.
Conclusion:
These Simple Christmas Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With their delicious flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
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Simple Christmas Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Christmas Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for the holiday season. Tender chicken thighs are seasoned and baked to perfection, then smothered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
For Chicken Thighs:
- 5 chicken thighs skinless & boneless, dried with paper towel
- 1 teaspoon 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoon dill finely chopped for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Season chicken thighs: Season chicken thighs with 21 Salute Seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bake chicken: In a baking dish, melt butter and place seasoned chicken thighs. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
- Make creamy sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, sauté garlic, add flour, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream. Stir in Parmesan until melted.
- Combine: Pour creamy sauce over baked chicken thighs.
- Serve: Garnish with dill and serve hot.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like broccoli or carrots to the baking dish for a complete meal.
- For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream in the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh with sauce
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg