Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs (Restaurant-Style, 30 Minutes)

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs), pat them very dry; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Jack

Update : February 20, 2026

Creamy garlic chicken thighs served in a bowl with herbs and spices

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and creamy sauce flavored with garlic and Parmesan cheese. It’s a restaurant-style recipe that you can make in just 30 minutes! Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also delivers amazing flavors that will impress your family and friends.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (About 2 lbs. Pat them very dry.)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp butter (Unsalted)
6 cloves garlic (Minced)
1/2 cup chicken broth (Low sodium)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (Chopped, for garnish)

Directions:

Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce for 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs with a side of steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice or pasta. The delicious sauce pairs well with many sides, making it a versatile dish for any meal.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ensure your chicken is as dry as possible before seasoning and cooking, as this helps achieve a nice crispy skin.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead. Just adjust the cooking time, as they will cook faster than bone-in thighs.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving to prevent the sauce from separating.