Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4
Introduction
Creamy garlic parmesan chicken thighs recipe with roasted garlic cloves and fresh parsley is a comforting one-pan dinner featuring juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs simmered in a rich Parmesan cream sauce loaded with sweet roasted garlic. Every bite is packed with creamy, savory flavor, making this recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. The silky garlic Parmesan sauce pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or crusty bread. For the richest flavor, allow the chicken to develop a deep golden crust before adding the creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lb / 900 g)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) onion powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon (3 g) kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 8 roasted garlic cloves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons (8 g) chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the chicken. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear the chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate.
- Cook the garlic. Reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter, then add the minced garlic and roasted garlic cloves. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the sauce. Stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, then simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Add the Parmesan. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
- Finish the chicken. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over them. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is fully coated.
- Serve. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if needed.
What side dishes pair best with creamy garlic Parmesan chicken?
This rich chicken pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, roasted asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or warm crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.