Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

 Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs – Irresistibly Flavorful and Easy to Make

If you're searching for a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dinner, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs recipe. Perfectly seared chicken thighs are enveloped in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce, creating a dish that's luxurious yet simple enough for weeknights. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen—ideal for busy families or last-minute dinner parties.

The crispy skin combined with a buttery, creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan makes this meal a standout. Plus, it's highly versatile—serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete feast!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – The bone-in meat ensures tenderness, while the skin crisps beautifully, adding texture and flavor.

1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.

1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick and complements the cream sauce.

1 teaspoon paprika – Provides warmth and color to the dish.

2 tablespoons olive oil – Essential for achieving a golden-brown sear.

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Creates a rich base and adds a smooth, silky texture.

6 garlic cloves, minced – The star ingredient that delivers a bold, aromatic punch.

1 cup chicken broth – Provides depth and balances the creaminess.

1 cup heavy cream – Forms the foundation of the luxurious sauce.

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce, delivering nutty, savory flavors.

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Infuses the sauce with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme for added complexity.

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this ensures a crispy sear.

2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5–7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.

3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds incredible flavor.

4. Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.

2. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and cover. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

3. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.

Rich and Comforting – Combines creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy chicken.

Versatile Pairings – Complements pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

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Pro Tips for Perfection

Use Fresh Garlic – Pre-minced garlic can lack flavor, so opt for fresh cloves for the best taste.

Grate Your Parmesan – Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it may not melt as smoothly.

Check the Internal Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.

Crisp the Skin First – Don't skip the searing step; it locks in flavor and creates the signature crispy texture.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Soak up the extra sauce with buttery mashed potatoes.

Fettuccine Alfredo – Double down on the creaminess for an indulgent pasta night.

Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus – Balance the richness with light, crisp vegetables.

Garlic Bread – Perfect for mopping up the leftover sauce.

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Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs recipe is a guaranteed winner for any occasion. With its rich, savory flavors, crispy skin, and velvety sauce, it’s hard to resist—and even harder to believe how simple it is to make. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Try it tonight and expe

rience why this recipe is a new dinner favorite! Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below—we'd love to hear how you served it!