Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in the kitchen, the warm aroma of garlic wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian bistro. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe has become my go-to dish for weeknights when time is tight but I still want to impress. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up tender chicken in a luscious sauce that boasts the deep flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and a splash of wine. Not only is this meal quick to prepare, but it’s also a true crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate low-carb or gluten-free diets with just a few simple swaps. Curious about how to make this delightful dinner a staple in your home? Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking! Why is this recipe a must-try? Simplicity shines through as this dish takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Rich, Creamy Sauce combines garlic, wine, and sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor explosion. Crowd-Pleasing appeal means even the pickiest eaters will come back for seconds. Versatility allows for easy swaps to make it low-carb or gluten-free, without sacrificing taste. Try pairing it with a delightful side of Baked Garlic Parmesan for a complete meal that feels gourmet without the fuss! Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs Ingredients For the Sauce • Oil from Sun-Dried Tomato Jar – This ingredient adds a depth of flavor to the sauce; if unavailable, olive oil works well too. • Dry White Wine (1 cup) – A crisp wine like Pinot Gris enhances the sauce’s acidity and flavor; feel free to substitute with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version. • Cream (1 cup) – Heavy cream is key for achieving that luscious, creamy texture; you could use coconut cream for a dairy-free take. For the Chicken • Chicken Thighs (Skinless, Boneless) – These are perfect for juiciness; they absorb the flavors beautifully. • Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the dish’s overall flavor; adjust according to your taste. • Black Pepper – A sprinkle adds the necessary seasoning; use freshly cracked for the best flavor. • Italian Herbs – Offering aromatic touches, this can be switched with dried parsley, basil, or oregano based on what’s on hand. For Flavor and Texture • Garlic (8 cloves, peeled) – This is the heart of the sauce, delivering a rich garlicky essence that makes this creamy garlic chicken thighs irresistible. • Dried Onion Flakes (1 tablespoon) – They imbue onion flavor easily; if you prefer fresh, go ahead and chop some up as a substitute. • Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1 cup) – These sweet yet tangy gems add texture and depth; pick firm, robust ones for the best effect. For Garnishing • Garnish (optional) – Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and chopped parsley to elevate the dish visually and add a fresh touch. With these ingredients in hand, you’re on your way to creating a warming and scrumptious meal that’s sure to become a staple at your home. Let’s get cooking these delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs Step 1: Heat the Oil Begin by heating the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large skillet over medium-high heat. After about 1–2 minutes, the oil should shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough. This flavorful oil will lay the foundation for your creamy garlic chicken thighs, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste. Step 2: Sear the Chicken Season the skinless, boneless chicken thighs generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs. Carefully place them in the hot skillet and sear for 4–5 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip the chicken and brown the other side for another 4–5 minutes until cooked through and juicy; then, remove from the skillet and set aside. Step 3: Create the Sauce Base Without cleaning the skillet, lower the heat to medium and pour in 1 cup of dry white wine. Scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor as the liquid simmers for about 2–3 minutes. Then, stir in 1 cup of cream and 1 tablespoon of dried onion flakes until well combined, creating a rich sauce base for the creamy garlic chicken thighs. Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Garlic Incorporate 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes and the 8 peeled garlic cloves into the sauce. Allow these ingredients to simmer for an additional 3–4 minutes, letting the garlic soften and infuse its aroma into the sauce. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic is fragrant and slightly tender, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Skillet Carefully place the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet, ensuring each piece is nestled in the creamy sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet, allowing the dish to cook for another 10 minutes. This step ensures the chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors and the garlic becomes perfectly soft. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked and coated in the creamy garlic sauce, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the creamy garlic chicken thighs over rice or alongside sautéed spinach, allowing the sauce to slather over everything beautifully. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper and chopped parsley, offering a burst of color and flavor. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain the delicious flavors of your creamy garlic chicken thighs. Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date so you can enjoy this dish later without wondering when you made it. Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore that creamy texture. Defrosting: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain flavor and texture. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce (wine, cream, onion flakes, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic) up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its creamy texture. When it’s time to cook, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet and add the marinated chicken, simmering until cooked through for a delicious and hassle-free dinner that’s just as satisfying as freshly made! Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs Cook Thoroughly: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results. Avoid Slimy Sauce: If your sauce seems too thin, create a slurry with flour mixed in cold water, and stir it in gradually to thicken. Perfect Garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic cloves, and sauté them until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Use Tongs: Handle chicken with kitchen tongs to maintain its juices and keep it moist throughout cooking. Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain its juices when you slice into it. Enjoy this scrumptious Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs dish that’s bound to become a weeknight favorite! Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs Variations Feel free to get creative with these variations, tailoring the dish to your preferences while still achieving that lovely, garlicky flavor. Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for skinless, boneless chicken breasts to create a leaner option. While the flavor is still superb, the texture will be slightly different but just as tasty! Vegetarian Option: Use hearty mushrooms, such as portobello or shiitake, instead of chicken for a savory, satisfying meal. The rich sauce will complement the earthy flavors beautifully! Broth Instead of Wine: Replace white wine with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version. This way, the dish remains just as flavorful without the wine, catering to all dietary preferences. Fresh Tomatoes: Instead of sun-dried tomatoes, try using fresh diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a lighter, fresher take. This twist will brighten the dish and add juicy texture! Zucchini Noodles: Serve the creamy garlic chicken over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb. It’s a delightful way to create a lighter meal without sacrificing taste. Add Spice: For those who enjoy a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce. This adds a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess! Homemade Cream Substitute: Make it dairy-free by using canned coconut milk in place of heavy cream. This variation still delivers that luscious texture but caters to those avoiding dairy. Herb Varieties: Switch out Italian herbs for fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. These herbs add a different layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the garlic and cream. Whatever variation you choose, you’ll still enjoy an incredible meal that can compete with your favorite takeout. And if you want to add even more flavor to your dinner table, consider trying it alongside a delightful serving of Cheesy Chicken Spinach! What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs Enhance your meal with delightful pairings that complement the rich, savory flavors of your chicken. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, these potatoes soak up the delicious garlic sauce, creating a comfort food classic. Garlic Bread: The crunchy, golden exterior gives way to a soft, garlicky center, perfect for sopping up the leftover sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying addition. Sautéed Spinach: The light, earthy taste of sautéed spinach is a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken, adding color and nutrients to your plate. Roasted Asparagus: The slight char from roasting brings out the sweetness of the asparagus, making this a vibrant and healthful side dish. Crisp Green Salad: With crunchy greens, fresh veggies, and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad enhances the flavor profile and provides a refreshing crunch. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken over zucchini noodles for a light and satisfying twist, allowing the creamy sauce to shine. Chardonnay: Pair your dish with a glass of crisp Chardonnay; its acidity complements the richness of the sauce, making each spoonful even more enjoyable. Berry Tart: End the meal on a sweet note with a berry tart that offers a contrast of tartness against the savory chicken, delighting your taste buds. Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe sun-dried tomatoes? When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, look for those that are firm and robust, avoiding any that seem overly dried or have dark spots all over, which indicates they may not be fresh. Firm sun-dried tomatoes will provide the best texture and flavor for your creamy garlic chicken thighs. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their wonderful flavors. Be sure to let the dish cool before sealing for optimal freshness! Can I freeze creamy garlic chicken thighs? Absolutely! You can freeze your creamy garlic chicken thighs in a sealed container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove or microwave. What if my sauce is too thin? If you find your sauce is thinner than desired, don’t worry! Create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering sauce, allowing it to thicken. Be patient and let it cook for a few extra minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can easily make creamy garlic chicken thighs gluten-free! Simply substitute the flour in the thickening slurry with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check your broth and any additional ingredients for gluten content as well. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Of course! If you prefer using chicken breasts, you can substitute them in this recipe. Just remember that chicken breasts can dry out quicker, so be attentive to cooking times, ensuring they reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Enjoy the flexibility! Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs for a Cozy Weeknight Delight This Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is a quick and delicious weeknight meal that impresses with rich flavors of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ItalianCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce1 tablespoon Oil from Sun-Dried Tomato Jar Can substitute with olive oil if unavailable.1 cup Dry White Wine A crisp wine like Pinot Gris enhances flavors; substitute with vegetable broth for non-alcoholic.1 cup Cream Heavy cream is key, coconut cream can be used for dairy-free.For the Chicken4 pieces Chicken Thighs (Skinless, Boneless) Perfect for juiciness.to taste Kosher Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.to taste Black Pepper Use freshly cracked for best flavor.1 tablespoon Italian Herbs Can be substituted with dried parsley, basil, or oregano.For Flavor and Texture8 cloves Garlic (peeled) Delivers a rich garlicky essence.1 tablespoon Dried Onion Flakes Can be substituted with fresh chopped onion.1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Choose firm and robust ones for best effect.For Garnishingto taste Garnish (optional) Freshly cracked black pepper and chopped parsley. Equipment Large skillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsHeat the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, then sear in the hot skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.Lower heat and pour in the white wine, scraping browned bits from the skillet and simmering for 2-3 minutes.Stir in cream and dried onion flakes, mixing well to create a rich sauce base.Add sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, simmering for an additional 3-4 minutes until garlic is fragrant and tender.Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes for flavors to meld.Serve over rice or with sautéed spinach, garnished with pepper and parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or frozen for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
