Cheesy Baked Chicken Thighs in Creamy Sauce

Here’s a simple recipe for Cheesy Baked Chicken Thighs in Creamy Sauce:

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry, then rub with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up, and spoon some sauce over them.
6. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
7. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your cheesy, creamy chicken dish! 🧀🍗