Creamy Baked Chicken Thighs in Glass Casserole
Introduction
When you’re craving something rich, cozy, and deeply satisfying, this creamy baked chicken thigh recipe delivers pure comfort in every bite. Tender chicken thighs are baked in a luscious, seasoned cream mixture that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty dinner perfect for family nights or relaxed weekends. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with warmth and your table with smiles.
Description
Juicy chicken thighs are nestled into a glass casserole dish and covered with a velvety blend of cream, garlic, herbs, and cheese. As it bakes, the sauce thickens and infuses the chicken with flavor, creating a golden, bubbling dish that pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Cream-based baked chicken dishes are popular in many European and North American home kitchens. Variations of creamy chicken casseroles can be traced to French country cooking, where cream sauces are foundational to comfort cuisine. Over time, this style of dish became a staple in American households, valued for its simplicity, affordability, and ability to bring families together around a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients & Quantity
For the Chicken:
6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2½–3 lbs / 1.2–1.4 kg)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
For the Creamy Mixture:
1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Chicken:
Pat chicken thighs dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Arrange them in a single layer in a glass casserole dish.
Make Creamy Mixture:
In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, thyme, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil (or butter).
Pour Over Chicken:
Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the raw chicken thighs.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden and bubbling.
Optional Broil:
Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a slightly crisp top.
Rest & Serve:
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken when plating.
Optional Additions
Sautéed mushrooms
Fresh spinach stirred into the sauce
Sun-dried tomatoes
Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Mozzarella for extra cheesiness
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Tips for Success
Pat chicken dry to ensure better browning.
Use room-temperature cream to prevent curdling.
Do not overcrowd the dish—chicken should be in a single layer.
For thicker sauce, let the dish rest before serving.
If using boneless thighs, reduce cooking time slightly.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 480–550
Protein: 28–32 g
Fat: 40–45 g
Carbohydrates: 3–5 g
Calcium: Moderate (from cream and Parmesan)
Values vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands.
Conclusion
This creamy baked chicken thigh casserole proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you get a rich, satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet approachable for any home cook.
Recommendation
Serve with:
Garlic mashed potatoes
Buttered rice
Steamed green beans
Warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce
For a lighter option, pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While creamy dishes are undeniably rich, balance is key. Pair this recipe with fresh vegetables, control portion sizes, and enjoy it as part of a varied diet. Comfort food can absolutely fit into a healthy lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully and shared with loved ones.
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