Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce wafting through your kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I craved something warm and hearty. As I watched the chicken sizzle in the pan, I could hardly wait for dinner to be served. The creamy sauce, with hints of garlic and seasoning, enveloped the tender chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that brought a smile to everyone at the table. This dish quickly became a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce

When it comes to the ingredients for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce, freshness and quality are key. The combination of the tender chicken thighs with the creamy sauce creates a rich dish that is deeply satisfying. Let’s take a look at each ingredient that brings this meal to life.

• 5-6 boneless chicken thighs: These are the star of the dish. Their juiciness and flavor make them perfect for searing and sauce absorption.
• 1 teaspoon EACH garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning: This blend of spices enhances the chicken, giving it warmth and depth.
• ½ teaspoon EACH salt & black pepper, or to taste: Essential for seasoning, adjusting to your preference ensures the dish is flavorful.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, it adds richness and helps achieve a golden crust.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a lovely creamy texture and flavor to the sauce.
• 1 small onion, minced: This provides sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic base in the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream: This is the heart of the creamy sauce, bringing richness and smoothness.
• ½ cup chicken broth, or water: Adds moisture and helps to create the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: A splash of acidity that brightens the entire dish.
• Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish: Not only does it add color, but it also freshens up the flavors.

The Method for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce

The method for cooking Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce is straightforward and enjoyable! You’ll find each step easy to follow, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into how to create this comforting dish.

1. First, start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Season both sides of the thighs generously with the spice mix you’ve prepared, which includes the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-duty cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently place the thighs in the skillet skin-side down. Sear for about 10 minutes, allowing them to develop a beautiful golden crust.
3. After the initial searing time, reduce the heat slightly. Flip the chicken and continue cooking undisturbed for another 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; the thighs should reach 165ºF. Once done, transfer them to a plate to rest.
4. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced onion. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes tender and translucent.
5. Next, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step is important as it adds depth to the sauce.
6. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Return the seared chicken thighs back into the pan, ensuring they are well coated in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or your favorite herbs before serving. This adds a lovely fresh note and makes the dish visually appealing.
9. Lastly, serve the Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce alongside your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, steamed broccoli, or toasted bread. Enjoy every bite!

Customization Ideas

There are countless ways to customize your Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce. Here are some ideas to inspire you!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to try different seasonings like cumin or chili powder for a unique flair.
• Vegetable additions: Throw in some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the protein: You can use boneless chicken breasts or even turkey thighs if you prefer.
• Change the cream: Substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a different richness.
• Try a different broth: Using vegetable broth instead of chicken can change the flavor profile entirely.
• Herb variations: Instead of parsley, you could use fresh thyme or basil for an aromatic twist.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for added heat.

What to Serve With Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce

When it comes to serving Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful pairing ideas:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes help soak up the delicious sauce.
• Rice: Fluffy rice acts as a perfect base to complement the chicken and sauce.
• Steamed broccoli: This adds a nice crunch and balances the creaminess of the dish.
• Toasted bread: Serve the dish with a side of your favorite toasted bread to mop up the sauce.
• Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Seasonal veggies: Roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables can add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Wine pairing: Enjoy with a crisp white wine or sparkling water for a complete dining experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce is truly a special dish that combines comfort and flavor effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a meal that brings everyone together. I encourage you to try it for your next dinner; you won’t be disappointed!

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cream Sauce is a creamy and flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings. This easy weeknight dinner is bursting with flavor, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 5-6 pieces boneless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion minced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• to taste freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with spice mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 10 minutes.
3. Reduce heat, flip chicken, and cook for another 10-15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165ºF. Transfer chicken to a plate.
4. To the same skillet, add butter and onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onion is tender.
5. Add garlic and cook for a few seconds. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and lemon juice and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Return chicken thighs to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides.

Notes

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Herbs: Feel free to use different herbs for garnishing to suit your taste preferences.
• Adjusting creaminess: You can add more heavy cream if you prefer a richer sauce.

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Meet Jade Summer

Reliability is just as important as flavor. I am the one double checking measurements and testing temperatures. I cooked this recipe repeatedly, troubleshooting any tricky parts, so you can trust that it will turn out perfectly the very first time you try it.