Go Back

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Thigh Skillet

Creamy chipotle chicken thigh is rich, smoky, and full of bold flavor. Juicy chicken simmers in a smooth cream sauce with just the right touch of heat. This easy one skillet dinner feels special, tastes amazing, and makes any night cozy and satisfying.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
Chipotle Cream Sauce
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce chopped
  • 1 tbsp adobo sauce from the can
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place chicken thighs skin side down and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip and cook 5 to 6 minutes more. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, cook the chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and smoked paprika. Cook briefly to bloom the spices.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Finish with fresh lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the number of chipotle peppers used. Boneless thighs can be substituted and will cook slightly faster. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.