Description
This Crispy Creamy Chicken Skillet Dinner brings restaurant flavors home. Juicy chicken, rich sauce, and so easy for a weeknight. Better than takeout!
Ingredients
Scale
- Main Players:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Flavor Boosters:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Creamy Sauce Essentials:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh Finishing Touches:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:: First things first, pat those chicken thighs super dry with paper towels. Seriously, this is crucial for getting that amazing crispy skin. Season them generously with salt and pepper. I usually do this on a cutting board, and yes, it gets a little messy, but it’s worth it. You want to hear that sizzle when it hits the pan, and dry skin helps prevent steam. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it forms the first layer of flavor.
- Sear for Crispiness:: Heat your olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron is my favorite for this!) over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them sear undisturbed for about 8-10 minutes, maybe even a bit longer, until the skin is deeply golden brown and super crispy. This is where I have to resist the urge to peek or move them too soon. Patience, my friend, patience! Flip them and sear for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. Transfer the chicken to a plate for a moment; don’t worry, it’s not done yet.
- Build the Flavor Base:: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring it around in those delicious chicken drippings for about a minute until fragrant. Oh, that smell! It’s honestly one of my favorite kitchen aromas. Stir in the dried thyme. Make sure not to burn the garlic; a quick sauté is all you need. This aromatic base is key to a truly flavorful dish.
- Deglaze and Simmer:: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all those browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Those bits are pure flavor gold, trust me! Bring it to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate those yummy flavors. This step is where the sauce really starts to come alive.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and luscious. This is where the “creamy” part of our Crispy Creamy Chicken Skillet Dinner truly shines. Taste it! Does it need a little more salt or pepper? Don’t be afraid to adjust. I usually add a tiny pinch more salt here.
- Finish in the Oven:: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). The skin should still be wonderfully crispy. I always check with a meat thermometer; no guessing games for me after a few undercooked chicken mishaps! Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your homemade Crispy Creamy Chicken Skillet Dinner!