Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs: The Easiest, Most Luxurious One-Pan Dinner

There are weeknight dinners, and then there are weeknight dinners that taste like they took hours of effort but came together in minutes. This recipe for Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs falls firmly into the latter category. It is the ultimate comfort food solution, combining succulent, flavorful chicken with a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce, all cooked beautifully in a single, oven-safe skillet. Forget dry chicken breasts; we are embracing the dark meat revolution, ensuring every bite is moist, tender, and bathed in savory goodness.

Chicken thighs are inherently forgiving, but when paired with a quick pan-searing step and a luxurious sauce, they transform into something truly spectacular. The initial sear guarantees perfectly crispy skin a crucial texture contrast before the dish finishes baking to perfection in the oven. The result? A fuss-free, elegant meal that requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you are feeding a busy family or hosting a small dinner party, these Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs will quickly become a permanent fixture in your culinary rotation. Get ready to ditch the complicated processes and enjoy a deeply satisfying, savory meal where the sauce is the star, and the chicken is flawlessly cooked every single time.

Quick Glance Recipe Details:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love These Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs

The culinary landscape is crowded with chicken recipes, so what makes these Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs stand out? Simply put: it’s the effortless combination of texture, flavor, and convenience. This recipe addresses every major complaint people have about making chicken at home it eliminates dryness, maximizes flavor depth, and drastically reduces the post-meal cleanup, making it a dream for busy cooks.

Unbeatable Juiciness and Flavor: We utilize bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, which are fundamentally superior to chicken breasts for baking. The higher fat content and proximity to the bone ensure the meat stays incredibly moist, even if you accidentally cook it a couple of minutes too long. The skin, seasoned heavily with smoked paprika and Italian herbs, gets a magnificent crispy texture during the initial sear and final bake. When you cut into the thigh, the contrast between the crunchy skin and the tender, juicy meat is divine. The combination of simple seasoning and the rich, complex Parmesan cream sauce permeates the meat, offering layers of savory flavor that plain baked chicken simply cannot achieve.

The Magic of One-Pan Cooking: One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its one-pan nature. By using an oven-safe skillet (like cast iron), you handle the searing, sauce creation, and final baking all in the same vessel. This means all those delicious browned bits left over after searing the chicken known as the fond are scraped up during the deglazing process, contributing concentrated flavor directly into the sauce. This process builds depth that you cannot get when cooking components separately. Minimizing dishes means more time enjoying your dinner and less time scrubbing pots, making this an ideal creamy chicken bake for weeknights.

Restaurant-Quality Sauce at Home: The cream sauce is deceptively simple but tastes incredibly luxurious. Unlike heavy, flour-based sauces, this one relies on a simple reduction of chicken broth, the richness of heavy cream, and the salty depth of Parmesan cheese. It coats the chicken beautifully and is begging to be sopped up by mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. The garlic adds aromatic warmth, while the Parmesan ensures a savory, umami-rich finish. Once you realize how easy it is to create such a decadent, creamy sauce right in the pan, you’ll be hooked on this method for all your future chicken dinners. The resulting dish is truly worthy of a special occasion, yet accessible enough for any Tuesday evening.

Why You Should Try This Creamy Chicken Thighs Recipe Now

If you are searching for a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers on flavor without demanding extensive culinary skills, look no further. This recipe for Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs solves several common cooking dilemmas and introduces techniques that will elevate your general kitchen competence.

Mastering the Sear and Bake Technique: The difference between good chicken and great chicken often comes down to two steps: searing and proper temperature management. This recipe teaches you the critical importance of searing bone-in chicken thighs skin-side down in a hot pan. This step is not just about aesthetics; it renders the fat, releasing incredible flavor and creating that shatteringly crispy skin. By moving the chicken from the stovetop to the oven, you achieve perfectly cooked meat (internal temperature of 175°F/80°C) without burning the outside, a fundamental skill for cooking any dark meat poultry.

Affordability and Accessibility: Chicken thighs are one of the most budget-friendly cuts of meat available, making this a highly economical recipe. Furthermore, the ingredients for the sauce heavy cream, broth, garlic, and Parmesan are staples found in almost any grocery store. This accessibility means you can easily pivot to making this delicious creamy chicken bake on short notice, without needing exotic or expensive items. It’s comforting food that doesn’t break the bank.

Ideal for Meal Prep and Versatility: While best served immediately due to the crispy skin, the creamy chicken and sauce reheat surprisingly well, making them excellent candidates for meal prepping throughout the week. The versatility of the sauce also allows for easy additions. Want to sneak in some veggies? Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes right before baking. This flexibility ensures the recipe remains exciting and adaptable to seasonal produce or dietary preferences. The rich, savory flavor profile pairs beautifully with virtually any side, from simple steamed broccoli to complex rice dishes. For a fantastic side dish idea that complements the richness, consider serving this chicken with a light salad or perhaps something unique like a Spanish classic you could even learn how to make an authentic Mixed Paella (Paella Mixta) to showcase global flavors alongside the chicken.

Ingredients and Essential Utensils for Perfect Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs

The magic of this Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs recipe lies in the quality and balance of simple, easily sourced ingredients. Achieving that deep, savory flavor and optimal texture requires paying attention to the specific cuts and seasonings detailed below.

For the Chicken and Seasoning: Achieving Maximum Flavor

We are focusing on maximizing the natural flavor profile of the dark meat before introducing the rich cream sauce. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are non-negotiable for the best texture and juiciness.

• 4 Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 lbs total): The bone helps insulate the meat, keeping it moister during the long bake, while the skin provides the perfect canvas for crispiness. Patting these thighs bone dry is the secret to a professional-level crisp skin.
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil: Used primarily as a binder for the spices and to aid in the searing process.
• 1 teaspoon Salt & 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper: The foundation of all seasoning. Be generous, as chicken thighs are thick and need sufficient salt penetration.
• 1 teaspoon Paprika (preferably smoked paprika): This is a crucial flavor boost. Smoked paprika adds a deep, almost smoky undertone that elevates the entire dish, complementing the richness of the cream sauce beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Italian herbs (or dried oregano): Provides an aromatic background, lending a slightly Mediterranean flavor note that works well with garlic and Parmesan.
• 1/4 teaspoon Garlic powder: Used in the rub to ensure garlic flavor adheres directly to the meat, complementing the fresh garlic used in the sauce.

For the Cream Sauce: Rich and Velvety

The cream sauce is created directly in the pan, utilizing the flavorful chicken drippings (fond) to enhance its depth.

• 1 tablespoon Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and provide a rich base before the liquids are added.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential here. Sautéing it briefly releases its aroma and sweetness.
• 1/2 cup Chicken broth (low sodium): This is the deglazing agent. It lifts all the delicious, browned bits from the pan floor, incorporating them into the sauce. Using low sodium allows you to control the final salt level.
• 1 cup Heavy cream (or whipping cream): The cornerstone of the creaminess. Heavy cream has enough fat content (usually 36% or more) to prevent curdling and provide that luxurious, thick texture we desire in this Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs dish. Do not substitute milk or half-and-half if you want a true, rich creamy sauce.
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides salt, umami, and helps thicken the sauce. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting quality and flavor the pre-grated container stuff often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish to contrast the richness of the creamy chicken bake.

Essential Tools for a Perfect Creamy Chicken Bake: Utensils Needed (700-900 words goal)

Using the right tools is critical for the one-pan success of these Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs. The most important tool is a skillet that can withstand both high heat on the stovetop and prolonged baking temperatures.

1. The Oven-Safe Skillet (The MVP):

For this one-pan dinner to work seamlessly, you must have a high-quality, oven-safe skillet. A 10-inch or 12-inch cast iron skillet is the gold standard for this recipe. Cast iron excels because it retains heat extremely well, ensuring a spectacular sear on the chicken skin. Furthermore, it can transition directly from the stovetop (for searing and sauce making) to the oven (for baking) without damage. If you don’t have cast iron, a stainless steel skillet with no plastic parts can also work, though searing may require slightly more attention. Avoid non-stick pans for the searing step, as they often cannot handle the high heat required and are generally not oven-safe up to 400°F (200°C).

2. The Meat Thermometer (The Necessity):

Achieving perfectly juicy chicken relies on hitting the correct internal temperature. Unlike chicken breast (which is often safe at 165°F/74°C), chicken thighs truly shine when cooked to a slightly higher temperature, around 175°F (80°C) to 180°F (82°C). This extra heat allows the connective tissues and fat to properly break down, resulting in that fall-off-the-bone tenderness. An instant-read digital thermometer is your best friend here. It ensures safety and guarantees perfect texture every time, eliminating guesswork.

3. Mixing Bowls and Measuring Tools:

• Small Mixing Bowl: Essential for mixing the dry seasoning rub efficiently before application.
• Measuring Spoons/Cups: Accurate measurements, particularly for the cream and broth, ensure the sauce consistency is perfect not too runny, not too thick.

4. Paper Towels:

Often overlooked, paper towels are crucial. The secret to achieving truly crispy chicken skin before baking is removing all surface moisture. Patting the chicken thighs completely dry ensures that the heat energy immediately goes toward browning and crisping the skin, rather than evaporating water. Do not skip this step!

5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula:

Necessary for stirring the sauce and, most importantly, for the deglazing step. A flat wooden spoon or spatula helps scrape up the fond the browned, flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan which infuse the sauce with incredible depth. This technique is vital for the success of the creamy sauce in your Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs.

By using the correct bone-in thighs, seasoning liberally with smoked paprika, utilizing the robust power of the cast iron skillet, and confirming doneness with a meat thermometer, you are setting the stage for one of the most satisfying creamy chicken bake dinners you will ever make.

Detailed Recipe Steps: How to Master the Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs

Following these steps precisely ensures maximum flavor, perfectly crispy skin, and a flawless, velvety cream sauce. Timing and temperature management are key to turning simple chicken and cream into this elegant Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs dinner.

Step 1: Preparation and Seasoning (The Crispy Skin Secret)

1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange a rack in the middle position.
2. Dry the Chicken: Place the 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs on a plate lined with paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly on all sides. This step is non-negotiable for crispy skin. Moisture is the enemy of browning.
3. Create the Rub: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, paprika (preferably smoked), dried Italian herbs, and garlic powder. Mix well.
4. Season: Drizzle the chicken thighs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the skin and meat, ensuring an even coating. Work the seasoning under the skin slightly, too, for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 2: Sear for Crispiness (Optional but Highly Recommended)

The searing step is what takes this creamy chicken bake from good to great. It locks in flavor and provides the necessary texture contrast.

1. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat. Do not add oil yet, as the chicken skin will render its own fat.
2. Sear: Once the skillet is smoking hot, carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down. Do not overcrowd the pan; ensure space between the thighs.
3. Cook Time: Sear undisturbed for 4–5 minutes. You are looking for a deep golden-brown, almost mahogany color, and a truly crispy texture. Resist the urge to move them until they release easily from the pan.
4. Rest: Remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the seared chicken thighs to a clean plate, leaving the rendered fat and flavorful drippings in the pan.
5. Drain Fat: Pour off all but about 1 tablespoon of the rendered chicken fat. This fat is packed with flavor and will contribute to the sauce, but too much will make the sauce greasy.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Cream Sauce

We build the luxurious sauce directly in the same skillet, utilizing the browned bits left behind from the chicken.

1. Aromatics: Return the skillet (with 1 tablespoon of fat) to medium heat. Add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté quickly for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Watch closely to prevent burning the garlic, as burnt garlic tastes bitter.
2. Deglaze: Pour in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Immediately use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan (the fond). This process, called deglazing, incorporates concentrated chicken flavor into the sauce. Let the broth simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to slightly reduce.
3. Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste the sauce at this stage and add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.

Step 4: Bake the Creamy Chicken Thighs to Perfection

Now, we finish the cooking process in the oven, where the chicken becomes tender, and the sauce stabilizes.

1. Arrange: Carefully place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Crucially, ensure the cream sauce surrounds the chicken but does not cover the crispy skin. You want the skin exposed to the dry heat of the oven to finish crisping.
2. Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven.
3. Cook Time and Temperature: Bake for 35–40 minutes. The chicken is finished when the internal temperature, measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh (avoiding the bone), reaches 175°F (80°C). The skin should be deeply golden and perfectly crisp.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Resting: Remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest in the pan for 5–10 minutes. Resting allows the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb the juices, guaranteeing a moist final product.
2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve the Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs immediately, spooning the excess creamy Parmesan sauce liberally over the chicken and any accompaniments. This easy chicken thigh recipe pairs beautifully with a simple potato dish, like the perfect Spanish Potato Omelette (Tortilla de Patatas), or fluffy rice.

Tips, Tricks, and Variations for Your Creamy Chicken Thighs Bake

While the core recipe for Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs is flawless as written, adapting the recipe to different tastes or dietary needs is simple. Use these tips to troubleshoot common issues and explore exciting flavor variations for your next creamy chicken bake.

Troubleshooting and Pro Tips for Success

• The Skin Isn’t Crispy: This is almost always due to residual moisture or insufficient heat. Ensure the chicken is patted bone dry before seasoning. Also, make sure your skillet is screaming hot for the initial sear (Step 2) and that the sauce does not touch the chicken skin during the baking phase (Step 4). The skin needs exposure to dry heat.
• The Sauce is Too Thin: If your sauce seems thin after baking, don’t worry. Remove the chicken thighs and place them on a platter to rest. Return the skillet containing the sauce to the stovetop over medium heat. Let it simmer gently for 5–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reduces to your desired thickness. The sauce will also thicken naturally as it cools slightly during the resting period.
• Make Ahead Tip: You can season the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance and store them uncovered in the refrigerator. The salt will act as a dry brine, helping tenderize the meat and draw out even more moisture, ensuring an extra crispy result.

Flavor and Ingredient Variations

These Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs provide an excellent base for experimenting with different flavor profiles:

1. Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach: For a popular twist, stir in 1/2 cup of drained, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) and 2 large handfuls of fresh spinach into the cream sauce (Step 3) just before adding the chicken back for baking. The spinach will wilt beautifully in the oven.
2. Mushroom and Thyme: Sauté 1 cup of sliced cremini mushrooms with the garlic and butter (Step 3). Add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves to the sauce for an earthier, deeper flavor profile.
3. Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a subtle heat, or use cayenne pepper in the seasoning rub for a more intense spice.
4. Low-Fat Option (Proceed with Caution): If you must reduce the fat content, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half mixed with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (a slurry) to stabilize it. Be aware that the sauce will be less rich and may be more prone to splitting, so keep the oven temperature consistent and avoid high-heat agitation.

For more delicious and inspiring recipes, especially easy weeknight meals or comfort food ideas, make sure to follow my latest updates on Pinterest, where you can find recipe inspiration and tips for making your creamy chicken bake and other fantastic dinners!

Nutritional Value and Benefits of These Creamy Chicken Thighs

While the term “creamy” often implies high calories, chicken thighs offer substantial nutritional benefits, particularly in terms of high-quality protein and essential nutrients. This recipe for Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs is highly satiating, making it a powerful component of a balanced meal plan, especially when served with lighter sides.

Macronutrient Breakdown (Per Serving, Estimated)

Note: These figures are estimates based on the ingredients list, assuming 4 servings and standard portion sizes for chicken thighs (approx. 6 oz per thigh, cooked).

• Calories: Approximately 550–650 kcal
• Protein: 40–45 grams
• Total Fat: 40–50 grams (High, due to skin-on thigh and heavy cream/Parmesan)
• Saturated Fat: 15–20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 3–5 grams (Naturally low carb/Keto-friendly)

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

1. High-Quality Protein from Chicken Thighs:

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of complete protein, which is vital for muscle repair, immune function, and satiety. The higher protein content in this dish ensures that you feel fuller for longer, helping manage overall caloric intake. Furthermore, chicken thighs contain higher levels of certain vitamins compared to breast meat, especially B vitamins (niacin, B6, and B12), which are crucial for energy metabolism and nervous system health.

2. Essential Minerals:

This creamy chicken bake is rich in iron and zinc. Zinc supports the immune system, and iron is necessary for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Chicken thighs naturally contain more iron than white meat, making them a beneficial addition, especially for those prone to low iron levels.

3. Healthy Fats (in Moderation):

While heavy cream contributes saturated fat, the recipe also incorporates healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil. Olive oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its positive effect on cardiovascular health. When consuming a rich dish like Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs, balancing it with non-starchy vegetables (like asparagus or broccoli) ensures a complete nutritional profile.

4. Benefits of Parmesan and Garlic:

Parmesan cheese provides a significant amount of calcium, essential for bone health. The garlic, beyond its incredible flavor, contains compounds like allicin, which have been linked to potential immune-boosting and heart health benefits. By incorporating fresh aromatics and simple spices, this easy chicken thigh recipe provides more than just great taste; it offers essential micronutrients needed for daily functioning. Enjoying this decadent dish in moderation, paired with fiber-rich sides, makes it a valuable and nourishing centerpiece for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Creamy Chicken Dinner

This recipe for Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs proves that culinary luxury doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. We’ve combined the rich, forgiving nature of bone-in chicken thighs with an incredibly easy yet decadent Parmesan cream sauce, culminating in a one-pan dinner that delivers deeply satisfying flavor with minimal fuss. The crucial step of searing ensures that vital textural contrast the shatteringly crisp skin against the moist, tender meat which is the hallmark of a truly great creamy chicken bake.

From the moment the fragrant garlic hits the hot pan, incorporating those golden-brown drippings, you are building a depth of flavor that defines comfort food. By relying on simple techniques patting the chicken dry, managing your oven temperature, and correctly deglazing the pan you can consistently achieve a meal that rivals any restaurant offering. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a foundational cooking skill set for maximizing flavor in a single skillet, a practice that encourages effortless elegance in your everyday cooking. Whether you serve these Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs with pasta, rice, or a side of fresh vegetables, the luxurious cream sauce will tie the entire meal together perfectly.

We encourage you to try this ultimate easy chicken thigh recipe tonight. Once you experience the convenience and the unbelievable flavor of these Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs, it will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen rotation. We would love to hear how you customized this creamy chicken bake! Please feel free to leave a comment below with your favorite variations or serving suggestions. Happy cooking!

Oven Baked Creamy Chicken Thighs with Parmesan Sauce

Tender, bone-in chicken thighs are pan-seared for crispy skin, then baked entirely in one oven-safe skillet submerged in a rich, savory Parmesan cream sauce.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Calories: 685

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken and Seasoning

• 4 Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 lbs total)
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Italian herbs (or dried oregano)
• 1/4 teaspoon Garlic powder

For the Cream Sauce

• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1/2 cup Chicken broth low sodium
• 1 cup Heavy cream (or whipping cream)
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)

Equipment

• Large Oven-Safe Skillet (Cast Iron recommended)
• Mixing bowl
• Meat thermometer

Method

 

Preparation and Seasoning

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly using paper towels; this is crucial for crispy skin.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, Italian herbs, and garlic powder. Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil and rub the seasoning mixture all over the skin and meat.

Searing the Chicken (Recommended)

1. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (such as cast iron) over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Sear for 4–5 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crispy.
2. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the chicken to a plate. Drain off most of the rendered fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon behind.

Preparing the Cream Sauce

1. Return the skillet to medium heat. Add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan (deglazing). Let the broth simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly reduced.
3. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Baking and Serving

1. Carefully place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, ensuring the skin remains above the sauce level (the sauce should surround the meat, but not cover the skin).
2. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C).
3. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken.

Notes

Ensure you measure the internal temperature of the chicken thigh in the thickest part, avoiding the bone. Cooking chicken thighs to 175°F (80°C) is preferred over the standard 165°F (74°C) for extra tenderness. If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the sauce and chicken to a small baking dish before baking.