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.
