Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs Recipe
This creamy chicken recipe features tender, golden-browned chicken thighs cooked in a rich and savory garlic parmesan sauce infused with fresh cilantro. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a quick dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (for frying the chicken)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup half & half
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 12-20 sprigs cilantro, finely minced
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure proper searing. In a bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Evenly season both sides of the chicken with this spice blend.
- Prep Aromatics: Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the fresh cilantro. Set aside for later use in the sauce and garnish.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a pan or pot over medium-high heat until it starts to smoke lightly. Pour in the neutral oil, then add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, then flip and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden brown and the chicken is nearly cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and set aside on a plate. Lower heat to low.
- Make Creamy Garlic Sauce: To the same pan, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about one minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the half & half, stirring occasionally to combine.
- Add Parmesan and Thicken: Sprinkle in the shredded parmesan cheese and continue stirring gently on low heat. Allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken without curdling, which should take a few minutes.
- Finish Chicken: Return the browned chicken thighs along with any accumulated juices back to the pan. Simmer together in the sauce for about one minute to reheat and meld flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the creamy chicken. Serve immediately for a deliciously comforting meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken skin is removed and thighs are patted dry before seasoning to achieve a good sear.
- Use neutral oil with a high smoke point such as canola or vegetable oil for frying.
- Stir the sauce gently on low heat to prevent the cream and cheese from curdling.
- If preferred, substitute half & half with heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
- Fresh cilantro adds brightness; adjust quantity to your taste.
