Easy and quick Chicken Thigh Recipe with Parmesan Cream Sauce These creamy garlic parmesan chicken thighs are juicy on the inside, golden on the outside, and coated in a rich, velvety cream sauce loaded with garlic and freshly grated parmesan cheese. A quick, family-friendly dinner made in one pan — perfect with pasta, mashed potatoes, or veggies!

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Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Cooking Tools:

Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably non-stick or ceramic)
Silicone or wooden spatula
Garlic press or knife
Cheese grater (for parmesan)
Measuring cups & spoons

Optional:

Lid for the skillet
Paper towels for patting chicken dry

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Serve this creamy chicken with crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with parmesan for a perfect balance

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken thighs – 700–800 g (about 1.5–1.75 lbs)
Heavy cream (20–30%) – 1 cup (250 ml)
Parmesan cheese, finely grated – ½ to ¾ cup (60–80 g)
Garlic, minced – 3–4 cloves
Butter – 2 tablespoons (30 g)
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Salt & black pepper – to taste
Italian herbs or thyme – ½ to 1 teaspoon
(Optional) pinch of nutmeg
(Optional) chopped parsley or basil for garnish

If you love easy chicken dinners, try these juicy chopped chicken fritters.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Step 1 – Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Dry chicken = better sear and juicier meat.

Step 2 – Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter.
Once hot, add the chicken thighs smooth-side down.

Cook for 4–5 minutes without moving, until golden.
Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes.

The chicken should be nicely browned but not fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate

Step 3 – Make the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic.

Sauté for 20–30 seconds, just until fragrant (do not burn).
Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and let it simmer gently for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4 – Add the Parmesan & Seasoning

Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Add Italian seasoning or thyme.
(Optional) Add a small pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.

If the sauce is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth.

Step 5 – Finish the Dish

Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.

Simmer for 8–10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thick and creamy.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs before serving

How to Serve

Serve warm, spooning extra sauce over the top. Pairs perfectly with:

Pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Mashed potatoes
Rice
Steamed broccoli or green beans

Top with fresh parsley or basil for a restaurant-style finish!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs with pasta

Tips for the Best Results

Don’t use high heat — it will dry out the chicken.
Let the sauce simmer, not boil, after adding cream.
Add parmesan only when the sauce is warm, not bubbling hot.

Dessert Idea:

Finish dinner with an easy homemade dessert like these waffle rolls with dulce de leche buttercream.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
If the sauce thickens after chilling, add 1–2 tablespoons of cream or milk while reheating and stir until smooth.
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, covered.

Freezing:
Cream-based sauces are not recommended for freezing, as they may separate once thawed.

Important Tips for Best Results

Do not boil the sauce — high heat can cause it to curdle.
Add cheese over low heat, stirring constantly.
If the sauce starts to separate, remove from heat and whisk vigorously until smooth.

Recipe Notes (Pro Tips)

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
A nonstick or light-colored pan helps prevent burning and keeps the sauce smooth.
Season gradually — cheese and butter add saltiness.