Introduction: There’s something special about a family recipe passed down through generations, especially when it brings comfort and joy to your dinner table. One such recipe is Savory Stuffed Chicken Thighs, a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, these chicken thighs offer a delightful combination of juicy meat and a flavorful stuffing that will leave everyone asking for seconds. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this irresistible dish, offer some tips for serving and storing, and suggest a few variations to try.
Ingredients:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
½ cup cream cheese, softened
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon butter (for baking)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium-sized skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. If you’re using fresh spinach, add it to the pan and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pan.
Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and onions with the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined into a creamy, flavorful stuffing.
Stuff the Chicken Thighs: Carefully remove the skin from each chicken thigh (but don’t discard it, as you’ll use it to wrap the stuffed chicken). Using a sharp knife, cut a small pocket into each thigh, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff each chicken thigh with the prepared spinach and cheese mixture, ensuring each thigh is well-filled.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the stuffed chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy. This step helps to lock in the flavor and moisture.
Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the chicken thighs are seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing is hot and bubbly.
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