Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs will cook even faster—just keep an eye and roast until the juices run clear. You might miss out on the crackly skin, but the flavors will be just as comforting.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No worries! After searing and building your gravy, transfer everything to a baking dish before roasting in the oven. The results are just as delicious.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use a creamy plant-based milk (like coconut cream) and a dairy-free parmesan, or omit the cheese entirely for a lighter but still tasty garlic gravy.

My sauce seems too thick after reheating—how do I fix it?

This happens as the sauce cools and is completely normal. Just add a splash of broth or milk while reheating and stir until it reaches your desired consistency.

Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs with Parmesan Gravy Recipe

Name: Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs with Parmesan Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 small onion, chopped; 6 cloves garlic; 1 tsp thyme; 1 cup bone broth; ⅔ cup shredded or grated parmesan cheese; 3 tbsp heavy whipping cream

There’s something truly magical about tender chicken, golden crispy skin, and a rich, velvety parmesan gravy—especially when you can pull it together in just about 40 minutes! These Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs with Parmesan Gravy hit every comfort note while being friendly to your schedule, making them a weeknight dinnertime hero. The savory roasted chicken is finished in an oven with a luscious, creamy sauce that wraps every forkful in pure flavor. If you crave robust garlic, aromatic thyme, and an irresistibly cheesy finish, this dish is about to become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Speed and Simplicity: All you need is one skillet and under an hour from prep to plate, perfect for busy evenings or whenever you want a no-fuss meal without sacrificing flavor.
Incredible Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic, savory bone-in chicken, and nutty parmesan creates a luxurious depth you rarely find in a quick dinner.
Versatile and Forgiving: This recipe easily adapts to what you have on hand, so substitutions are welcomed.
Family Friendly: Even picky eaters warm up to the cheesiness of the sauce and the familiar comfort of roasted chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: The ultimate choice for juicy, tender meat and crispy skin. Don’t skip the skin; it brings texture and flavor you simply can’t get otherwise!
Olive Oil: For searing, adding richness, and getting that enviable golden crust on the chicken.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out every savory note in the meat.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to your gravy base.
Garlic Cloves: Six cloves may sound generous, but roasting mellows the flavor into something simply irresistible.
Thyme: Fresh or dried, thyme brings aromatic earthiness that pairs perfectly with Parmesan.
Bone Broth: Provides extra flavor and depth to the sauce. Chicken broth works beautifully if bone broth isn’t handy.
Parmesan Cheese: Nutty and salty, any form works—shredded yields stringy deliciousness, while grated melts more seamlessly.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is what makes your sauce luxuriously creamy. For a lighter touch, use half-and-half or even evaporated milk.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to tweak this dish to suit your cravings or pantry? Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Herb Swap: Try rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a subtle twist.
Veggie Boost: Throw in halved mushrooms or chopped spinach with the garlic and onion to add more vegetables.
Different Protein: Boneless chicken breasts or pork chops work if you prefer, but watch the cooking time so they stay tender.
Lighter Gravy: Use milk or half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter, though still creamy, sauce.
Add a Zing: Stir in a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes at the end for extra brightness.

How to Make Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs with Parmesan Gravy

Step 1: Preheat and Sear

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Once shimmering, nestle in your chicken thighs skin side down. Season the exposed side with salt and pepper. Sear for about 2-3 minutes a side until deeply golden—don’t rush this part; it locks in flavor. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Start the Gravy Base

In that same skillet (hello, one-pan magic!), add your chopped onion and whole garlic cloves, stirring for 2-3 minutes. You’re aiming for soft, lightly browned onions and fragrant garlic.

Step 3: Build Big Flavor

Sprinkle in the thyme and stir until the aroma is irresistible (about 30 seconds). Pour in the bone broth, scraping up any golden bits stuck to the pan. That’s pure flavor!

Step 4: Make it Creamy and Cheesy

Whisk in the heavy whipping cream, then slowly add your parmesan cheese. Go in batches if using shredded, whisking after each addition so it melts smoothly. Your sauce should look glossy and rich.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Return your browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Pop the skillet into your hot oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and irresistibly golden.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken, garnishing with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if you like. That’s it—you’re ready to serve!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Dry the Chicken: Patting chicken skin dry before searing helps it get extra crispy.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give the thighs space to brown, even if you have to work in batches.
Cheese Matters: If using pre-shredded parmesan, add it gradually or melt it with a splash of broth to ensure a silky sauce.
Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. The sauce thickens, and the flavors meld together.

How to Serve

This savory chicken is show-stopping on its own, but some sides transform it into an unforgettable feast. Spoon over creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a simple rice pilaf to soak up every drop of gravy. For a lighter option, serve atop sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or a crisp green salad. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and a dusting of parmesan for extra flavor.

Pair with a glass of chilled white wine and a crusty hunk of bread for the ultimate comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftovers completely and transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken but remains delicious.

Freezing

Freeze cooled chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Gently rewarm in a skillet over low heat, stirring in a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating also works—cover loosely and heat until just warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs will cook even faster—just keep an eye and roast until the juices run clear. You might miss out on the crackly skin, but the flavors will be just as comforting.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No worries! After searing and building your gravy, transfer everything to a baking dish before roasting in the oven. The results are just as delicious.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use a creamy plant-based milk (like coconut cream) and a dairy-free parmesan, or omit the cheese entirely for a lighter but still tasty garlic gravy.
My sauce seems too thick after reheating—how do I fix it?

This happens as the sauce cools and is completely normal. Just add a splash of broth or milk while reheating and stir until it reaches your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs with Parmesan Gravy is pure comfort made easy, bringing a restaurant-caliber experience to any home kitchen. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a richly flavored sauce, it’s one of those dishes you’ll crave all week long. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and savor every bite. You won’t regret adding this to your go-to dinner rotation!