# Stuffed Chicken Thighs: An Easy and Flavorful Dinner Choice
Stuffed Chicken Thighs are a tasty and straightforward dinner option that features juicy chicken, flavorful stuffing, and crispy bacon. This meal not only requires minimal preparation but also utilizes leftover stuffing, turning it into a satisfying dish with little effort.
## Holly’s Recipe Highlights: Stuffed Chicken Thighs
### Flavor
The mix of smoky bacon, rich stuffing, and tender chicken generates a decadent flavor profile that is bound to impress. The crispy edges contribute an enjoyable texture to every mouthful.
### Why Make It
This recipe converts boxed stuffing or leftover homemade stuffing into a scrumptious dinner that tastes like it was laboriously prepared. It’s an ideal way to make use of leftovers while offering a comforting meal.
### Serving Suggestions
Serve your stuffed chicken thighs alongside sides such as green beans, glazed carrots, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a warm, complete meal.
### Total Time
– **Preparation Time:** 20 Minutes
– **Cooking Time:** 35 Minutes
– **Total Time:** 55 Minutes
– **Serves:** 4
## Ingredient Notes
– **Stuffing Mix:** Opt for boxed stuffing mix for ease or leftover homemade stuffing for deeper flavor. Make sure it is fully cooled before filling the chicken.
– **Chicken:** Boneless skinless chicken thighs are perfect, preferably of similar size for even cooking. Larger thighs make stuffing and wrapping simpler.
– **Bacon:** Thin to regular-cut bacon is suggested as it wraps easily around the chicken and crisps up beautifully in the oven.
– **Variations:** Boost the stuffing with chopped herbs like parsley, sage, or thyme, or incorporate diced apple or dried cranberries for a festive flair. Cornbread stuffing can provide a softer texture and a touch of sweetness.
## How to Make Stuffed Chicken Thighs
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Prepare the stuffing following package instructions and let it cool completely.
3. Place each chicken thigh on a cutting board and add 2-3 tablespoons of stuffing in the center.
4. Fold the chicken thigh over the stuffing and wrap it tightly with bacon. Season the tops with garlic powder and paprika.
5. Place any remaining stuffing in the bottom of the baking dish and position the chicken thighs seam side down on top.
6. Bake for 35 minutes or until the chicken achieves an internal temperature of 165°F.
### Tips for Success
– **Cool the Stuffing:** Make sure the stuffing is entirely cooled before stuffing the chicken.
– **Pat the Chicken Dry:** This aids the bacon to stick better and enhances browning.
– **Do Not Overfill:** Steer clear of overfilling the thighs to stop the stuffing from spilling out during baking.
– **Seam Side Down:** Position the thighs seam side down to keep them closed while cooking.
– **Use a Thermometer:** Verify the internal temperature of both the chicken and stuffing for doneness.
– **For Crisper Bacon:** Broil briefly at the end if necessary, watching closely.
– **Assemble Ahead:** Prepare the dish several hours in advance and refrigerate until it’s time to bake.
## Save It for Later
Leftover stuffed chicken thighs can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F, then uncover for a few minutes to crisp the bacon.
### Conclusion
Stuffed Chicken Thighs are a flexible and delightful dish that combines simple ingredients for a comforting meal. Whether utilizing leftovers or whipping up a fresh batch, this recipe is destined to be a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your delicious creation!