1-Getting started with this braised chicken thighs recipe is all about building confidence in the kitchen, one step at a time. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which sets the stage for tender, flavorful results. This method ensures the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce.

2-First, pat the 6 chicken thighs dry to remove any moisture, then drizzle them with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon granulated onion. This helps the skin crisp up nicely when you sear it. Next, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a cast-iron or heavy-bottom oven-safe pan over medium-high heat and sear the chicken skin side down for 6 to 7 minutes until it’s golden brown.

3-Flip the chicken and sear the bone side for 4 to 5 minutes to lock in those juices. Once done, set the chicken aside and use the same pan to sauté the 2 onions until they’re golden brown, which adds a sweet base to the dish. Stir in the 6 cloves garlic and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning until aromatic, then mix in 1 tablespoon tomato paste and cook for about 30 seconds to deepen the flavors.

4-Here’s where the magic happens: add the ½ cup white wine if you’re using it, and let it reduce completely before stirring in the ½ cup chicken stock, the chopped 1 (28 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes with their juices, and the ½ cup pitted olives. Nestle the chicken thighs skin side up into the sauce and place the pan uncovered in the oven to braise for 45 to 50 minutes. For tips on keeping it fresh, check out our storage guide.

5-Finish the dish with 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or flat-leaf parsley, and serve it alongside options like pasta, couscous, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or rustic bread. This step-by-step approach makes it easy to adapt for dietary needs, such as substituting protein with plant-based options during searing. The total prep time is 20 minutes, cook time is 55 minutes, and it all comes together in about 1 hour 15 minutes for a satisfying meal.