Oven-Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs with Ham and Cheese
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s super easy to prepare, look no further than these Oven Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs with Ham and Cheese. This recipe is a great way to make the most of boneless chicken thighs, but it works just as well if you’re starting with bone-in thighs and deboning them yourself.
You’ll love the combination of tender, juicy chicken wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese, all seasoned with thyme and garlic. And the best part? The oven does all the hard work for you!
Why Will You Love this Recipe?
- Simple and Flavorful: With just a few ingredients like ham, cheese, and chicken, this recipe packs a lot of flavor into each bite.
- Versatile: It’s a great recipe for a weeknight dinner but also special enough for a weekend meal. Plus, you can customize it by using different types of cheese or ham.
- Oven-baked Goodness: Baking the chicken makes it juicy and tender, while keeping things hands-off for a stress-free meal.
Recipe Variations
- Different Cheese Options: You can switch up the cheese by using mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss, depending on your preference.
- Add Some Veggies: Try adding spinach or roasted red peppers inside the chicken for a little extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Turkey: If you’re not into chicken thighs, you could easily make this with turkey breast for a leaner option.
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp Knife: Essential for deboning the chicken thighs if necessary.
- Toothpicks: To secure the rolled chicken thighs.
- Baking Tray: Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Tongs: For flipping the chicken if necessary during baking.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken thighs in advance and store them in the fridge, ready to bake later. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before placing them in the oven.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to keep the chicken crispy, or microwave for a quicker option.
Can I freeze the chicken thighs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the prepared, uncooked chicken thighs. When you’re ready to cook them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.
What can I serve with this dish?
These chicken thighs pair well with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Is this recipe suitable for every diet?
This recipe contains cheese and ham, so it’s not suitable for dairy-free or vegetarian diets. However, you can make some swaps, like using plant-based cheese or a dairy-free alternative, to suit your needs.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Boneless Chicken Thigh Piccata
- Chicken Piccata With Artichokes
- Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
- Sweet and Saucy Chicken Drumsticks and Thighs
- Easy Chicken Pâté
- Dave’s Hot Chicken (Copycat Recipe for Sliders and Sauce)
- Whole Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Bacon and Celery Stuffing
Oven Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs with Ham and Cheese
Equipment
- Toothpicks
Ingredients
- 6 boneless chicken thighs
- 2.5 ounces ham 70 g
- 3.5 ounces cheese 100 g
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken:
- If your chicken thighs are not already boneless, carefully debone them by cutting around the bone with a sharp knife. Keep the skin on for extra flavor and moisture. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. For more flavor, you can season the chicken the day before and let it marinate in the fridge.
Fill and Roll:
- Lay the ham and cheese evenly on top of each seasoned chicken thigh. Roll them up and secure with toothpicks to keep everything in place.
Bake:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the rolled-up chicken thighs on the tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. If your chicken is larger or thicker, you may need to extend the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
Serve:
- Remove the toothpicks before serving. Pair the chicken with your favorite side dish. Enjoy!
