Quick Description:
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato Sauce are full of flavor, with tender chicken thighs, a rich cream sauce with Parmesan cheese, and sweet cherry tomatoes. The crispy skin and creamy sauce come together in this comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- WW Points per Serving: 9 points (estimated, varies by ingredients)
Ingredients List:
- 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or any herbs you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). -
Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. -
Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. -
Cook the Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. -
Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. -
Combine and Bake:
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side up, and spoon some of the sauce over them. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). -
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy!
Dietary Info:
- Rich and Creamy
- Packed with Protein (from chicken and Parmesan)
- Low-Carb
- Can Be Made Dairy-Free (using dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives)
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions:
-
Flavor Variations:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Swap the cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, deeper flavor.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the chicken over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or zucchini noodles.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information:
-
Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. -
Make-Ahead Tips:
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and reheat when ready to serve.
Optional Personal Story or Additional Notes:
This dish is one of my go-to recipes when I want something comforting and flavorful but easy to prepare. The creamy tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, and the addition of fresh basil brings it all together. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbs: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Sugar: 3g
