Baked Italian Chicken Thighs

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Preheat 🌡️

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. If using an oven-safe skillet (like the one in ), you can complete the recipe in one pan! Otherwise, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken 🍗

1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with a paper towel.
2. In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Rub the chicken thighs generously on both sides with the olive oil, then press the seasoning blend firmly onto the meat so it sticks.

Step 3: Sear for Maximum Flavor (Optional but Recommended!) 🍳

1. Heat your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the hot skillet and sear for 3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color. (Note: The chicken will finish cooking completely in the oven, but this initial sear locks in the juices!). Remove the pan from the heat.

Step 4: Layer the Sauce and Cheese 🥫🧀

1. Toss the minced garlic right into the pan around the chicken.
2. Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce over and around the chicken thighs, making sure they are well-nestled in the red sauce.
3. Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over the top of each thigh, mimicking that gorgeous cheesy covering seen in .

Step 5: Bake to Cheesy Perfection 🏎️

1. Carefully transfer the skillet (or baking dish) to the preheated oven.
2. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer and the sauce is bubbling.
3. For that perfect, gooey finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes until the mozzarella cheese is melted to your liking.