Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
These baked Italian chicken thighs are a delicious and hassle-free dinner option. With creamy ricotta and Parmesan toppings, melty mozzarella, and marinara sauce, they provide a healthy twist on classic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
- ½ cup low-fat ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt until smooth. Set aside.
- Season the chicken thighs on both sides with garlic powder and a pinch of salt.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs into the skillet, smooth-side down, and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned on the bottom.
- Flip the chicken over, then remove the skillet from the heat.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the tops of the chicken thighs.
- Pour marinara sauce on and around the chicken in the skillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 165°F (74°C).
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the chicken and return to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.