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Creamy Chicken Thighs

These creamy chicken thighs are rich, tender, and full of comforting flavor. Juicy chicken thighs are pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that's perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. It's an easy one-skillet dinner that's ready in just 35 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1½ pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Season both sides of the chicken thighs evenly.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Sear the chicken thighs for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
  9. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them.
  10. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Avoid boiling the cream sauce to keep it silky and smooth.
  • Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.