Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Garlic Lemon Cream Sauce
Golden Mozzarella Chicken Thighs in Luscious Garlic Lemon Cream Sauce
Ingredients:
6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
6 mozzarella cheese sticks (or 6 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into sticks)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Lay each thigh flat and place a mozzarella stick in the center. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown (about 5 minutes total).
Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
Add chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over the top.
Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).
Garnish with parsley and serve with extra sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 6 servings