Bobby Flay's Creamy Chicken Thighs Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bobby Flay's creamy chicken thighs recipe transforms humble poultry into an extraordinary dish that belongs in every home cook's repertoire. The combination of perfectly seasoned, crispy-skinned chicken swimming in a velvety, aromatic sauce creates a restaurant-worthy meal that's surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1 shallot, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce
   In the same skillet, add the chopped shallot and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Finish the Dish
   Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and simmer for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

5. Serve
   Transfer the chicken to serving plates and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with additional thyme if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.

• Herbaceous Twist: Substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.

• Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the shallots and garlic for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce's consistency.

FAQs

How do I ensure the chicken skin gets crispy?

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture, which can prevent crisping.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, but bone-in thighs will require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the chicken can be cooked ahead, it's best to make the sauce fresh to maintain its creamy texture.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad complement this dish nicely.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

It's not recommended to freeze the chicken with the sauce, as the cream may separate upon reheating.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, adding sautéed spinach or peas can enhance the dish's flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Bobby Flay's creamy chicken thighs recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and thoughtful technique. The result is a dish that's both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.