About
Baked Italian Chicken Thighs make for a scrumptious dish with all the Italian comfort you crave! This recipe includes juicy chicken thighs drenched in flavorful marinara and covered in melted cheese. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have 4 servings of cheesy, crunchy, savory deliciousness. Serve Baked Italian Chicken Thighs over a bed of pasta for a complete, hearty meal!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups jarred marinara sauce
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, optional
Directions
Step 1 -Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Step 2 -In a small bowl, add the ricotta, the parmesan, the Italian seasoning, and the salt, then mix. Set it aside.
Step 3 -Using the salt and the garlic powder, generously coat the chicken thighs all over.
Step 4 -In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil on medium-high heat on the stovetop.
Step 5 -Put the smooth side of the chicken thighs down in the oil and brown them for 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 6 -After flipping the thighs over, transfer the pan from heat.
Step 7 -Cover each thigh evenly with the cheese mixture.
Step 8 -Pour the marinara sauce on top of the cheese mixture layer. Be sure to surround the chicken thighs in the pan with the sauce as well.
Step 9 -Bake until the core temperature of each of the thighs reaches 165 degrees F, about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, leaving the oven on.
Step 10 -Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken and put it back in the oven until the cheese has melted, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 11 -Top with the parsley, and serve.
