Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
Juicy pan-seared chicken thighs simmered in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, perfect for a satisfying low-carb dinner. This american-inspired keto (low carb, gluten free) ready in about 35 minutes blends kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces (about 1.5 lbs) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat dry 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and season evenly with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 2: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet and cook without moving for 6-7 minutes until the skin is deep golden and crispy. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 5 minutes until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil to rest.
- Step 3: Reduce heat to medium and add 2 tbsp unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4: Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, stirring constantly and scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
- Step 5: Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Step 6: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning sauce over them, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving warm.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce low carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
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