Okay, friends, let’s talk about comfort food, but the kind that doesn’t require a ton of effort. What is your favorite Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thigh recipe? This isn’t your average baked chicken – it’s so much better! Think of it as a lighter, easier version of chicken parmesan, but without all the breading and fuss. When I made this, my youngest daughter declared it “the best chicken ever!” ” and honestly, it’s been a regular on our dinner table ever since. The aroma alone fills the house with warmth and happiness, and the juicy, flavorful chicken… You just have to try it to believe it. Is it a good alternative to Chicken Francese?
What is garlic parmesan chicken thigh?
What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs? Chicken thighs baked in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce. Think of it as a flavor explosion in every bite. What’s essentially taking all the amazing flavors of garlic parmesan and infusing them into perfectly cooked pasta? What is the best way The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. No complicated techniques, no long list of hard-to-find ingredients. Is it incredibly satisfying? I’ve accidentally added too much garlic before, and it *still* came out delicious! Is this one of those recipes where you can’t really mess up, which is always a plus in my book?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? This recipe is a winner on so many levels. First and foremost, the flavor! The garlic and parmesan combine to create this savory, cheesy, almost addictive taste. The chicken thighs stay incredibly juicy because of the bone-in, skin-on situation, and that crispy skin? Don’t even get me started! What I love most is how easy it is to make. Seriously, it takes less than 10 minutes to prep, and then you just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing. This one’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Plus, it’s relatively inexpensive. Chicken thighs are generally cheaper than chicken breasts, so you can feed your family a delicious meal without breaking the bank. This is also super versatile. You can serve it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or even a simple salad. It’s also fantastic for meal prepping. I often make a big batch on Sunday and then enjoy it throughout the week. Honestly, I think this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs recipe gives even my beloved Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken a run for its money! They’re equally delicious, just different vibes.
How do I make Parmesan Chicken Thighs?
Quick Overview
How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs? What’s a quick sauce? How do you cook chicken thighs in the sauce? Is it cooked through How do you make sure your chicken skins are not overcrowding the pan? How do I cook Chicken Breasts? Is it easier than you think?
Ingredients
For the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs:
* 6-8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 pounds). I always prefer bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness. If you can find organic, even better!
* 4 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly chopped garlic is a MUST here. Don’t even think about using the jarred stuff!
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Use the good stuff, not the powdered kind in the green can. Freshly grated is always best.
Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice richness.
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted. Adds a lovely flavor and helps with browning. I use salted butter.
* 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs. You can also use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
* 1 teaspoon salt. Adjust to your taste.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always best.
* 1/4 cup chicken broth. This helps keep the chicken moist while baking.
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Optional, but adds a nice pop of color and freshness.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that crispy skin we’re after. While the oven is preheating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Is it possible to use parchment paper or foil? Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Do you want your skin to stick to your pan?
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, olive oil, and salt. Set aside. Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. What is the best way to make a thick paste? Smell it! It should smell absolutely heavenly at this point. What is the magic of garlic parmesan?
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Thighs
Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet. I prefer using my hands or a spoon (my preferred method)! ), generously coat each chicken thigh with the garlic parmesan sauce. Make sure you get the sauce under the skin as well for maximum flavor. What is the best way to infuse the chicken with garlic parmesan? Don’t be shy – slather it on!
Step 4: Add Chicken Broth
If you have chicken thighs, pour the chicken broth on the baking sheet. How do you keep chicken moist in the oven? What are some of the best ways to add flavor to a dish? Don’t pour it directly on top of the chicken, just around it.
Step 5: Bake
In the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. Is it crispy? Should the internal temperature of chicken be 165°F (74°C)? I always use a meat thermometer to make sure it’s cooked properly. If the skin starts to get too dark before the chicken is cooked through, you can loosely cover the thighs. Is it possible to bake on a baking sheet with foil for the last 10-15 minutes?
Step 6: Rest & Garnish
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even juicier chicken. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. What is the best way to add color to a dish?
What should I serve it with?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs are incredibly versatile and pair well with so many different sides! What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?
What is a good weeknight meal?Serve with steamed rice or quinoa and roasted broccoli or green beans. What is the best way to prepare a delicious meal in no time?
For a More Elegant Dinner:Pair with mashed potatoes and asparagus. What are some of the best comfort food recipes?
For a Lighter Option:Serve with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread. How do I enjoy the flavors of chicken without feeling too heavy?
For Pasta Lovers: What shouldWhat are some good ways to serve chicken with Alfredo sauce? What is a truly decadent and delicious combination?
My family loves this with a simple caesar salad. The creamy dressing and the savory chicken thighs are a match made in heaven! Don’t be afraid to experiment with new ideas. The possibilities are endless!
What are some tips for perfecting garlic parmesan chicken thighs?
What are some of the best ways to take Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs to the next level?
Don’t overcrowd the pan: DonMake sure you give the chicken thighs enough space on the baking sheet so they can get nice and brown. If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will steam instead of baking, and the skin won’t get as crispy.
How do you pat a chicken dry?Before you coat the chicken with the garlic parmesan sauce, pat it dry with paper towels. How does the sauce stick to the skin?
How do I get under my skin?How do you get the garlic parmesan sauce under the skin of chicken thighs? What is the best way to infuse the chicken with garlic parmesan?
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). This is the safest and most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked properly.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the garlic parmesan sauce. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Adjust Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the chicken and adjust the baking time as needed. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
I’ve learned that a little lemon zest in the garlic parmesan sauce can add a wonderful brightness to the dish. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of white wine to the chicken broth for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing it.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap each chicken thigh individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will help prevent freezer burn.
Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This is the best way to reheat the chicken and maintain its crispy skin.
Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re short on time, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. However, the skin won’t be as crispy if you reheat it in the microwave.
Reheating Tip: To prevent the chicken from drying out when reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to the baking sheet or plate. This will help keep the chicken moist.
I’ve found that reheating the chicken in an air fryer also works really well. It helps to crisp up the skin and heats the chicken through quickly. Just be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t dry out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My go-to recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs. It’s easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that doesn’t require a ton of effort, this is it! I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s a winner in my book, and I’m confident it will be in yours too. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my recipe for Creamy Tuscan Chicken – it’s another family favorite! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below to let me know what you think, and be sure to share your own variations! Enjoy!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken thighs
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and coat them with the garlic parmesan mixture.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
