Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta

Name: Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs; 1 large fennel bulb, sliced; 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

Published: January 5, 2026

by Lisa

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This one-pan wonder simplifies dinner preparation while delivering unforgettable flavor that excites your taste buds.
The visually appealing combination of golden chicken and vibrant fennel makes every plate Instagram-worthy.
Enjoy it during family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners—this dish is versatile enough for any occasion!
You’ll love how leftovers (if any) taste even better the next day!

Ingredients for Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bone-in Chicken Thighs: These juicy pieces are perfect for braising, as they remain tender and flavorful during cooking.
Fennel Bulb: Choose a firm bulb with bright green fronds; it adds a unique sweetness and an aromatic touch to the dish.
Pasta: Any short pasta works well, but I recommend fusilli or penne to capture all that delicious sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings out flavors beautifully; always opt for whole cloves rather than pre-minced.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Olive Oil: A staple in many kitchens, it adds richness and depth to the dish when searing your chicken.

For seasoning:

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences for best results.
Fresh Herbs: Consider thyme or parsley—they add freshness that elevates the entire dish!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large oven-safe skillet or dutch oven; it’s time to create some culinary magic.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in your skillet. Season those chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper before placing them skin-side down in the hot oil. Sear until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once your chicken is beautifully browned, remove it from the pan temporarily. Toss in minced garlic and sliced fennel into that glorious drippings left behind. Sauté until fragrant—about two minutes will do!

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Return those bronzed chicken thighs back into the skillet along with any juices accumulated on the plate. Pour in chicken broth gently, ensuring everything is nestled comfortably together like old friends at a reunion.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add your pasta directly into the skillet; stir gently to combine all ingredients. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before covering with a lid or foil.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Transfer your skillet into the preheated oven! Bake for about 30-35 minutes until everything is cooked through and pasta has absorbed most of that flavorful liquid.

Finally, serve up steaming bowls of this irresistible creation! Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—the irresistible one-pan braised chicken thighs & fennel pasta brings smiles at every table! Don’t forget to invite friends over because trust me, they’ll want seconds!

You Must Know

This irresistible one-pan braised chicken thighs and fennel pasta offers more than just flavor; it simplifies weeknight dinners.
With its vibrant colors and aromas, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Perfect for busy nights but elegant enough for entertaining!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken thighs in the pan to develop that golden-brown crust. While they cook, prepare the pasta and chop the fennel. Combine everything in one pan for ultimate flavor fusion. This sequence ensures efficiency and perfect results without turning your kitchen into a war zone.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish! Swap chicken thighs for breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to elevate flavors. Use different herbs like thyme or rosemary to create your unique version of this delicious meal!

Storing & Reheating

To store, cool the dish completely before placing it in an airtight container. It lasts up to three days in the fridge. When reheating, use a skillet on low heat to maintain texture and moisture without drying it out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve crispy skin, ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken.
Let it rest after cooking for juicier meat.
Don’t rush; patience yields flavor!

Sometimes I whip this dish up when friends drop by unexpectedly, and they always ask for seconds—it’s become my unofficial dinner party secret weapon!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta?

To prepare this delicious dish, gather chicken thighs, fresh fennel bulbs, pasta of your choice, garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme can enhance the flavor. This combination creates a rich and aromatic meal that perfectly balances the heartiness of chicken with the sweetness of fennel.

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests a specific type of pasta, you can easily substitute it with your favorite variety. Options like penne, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta work wonderfully. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure everything blends together beautifully in your Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta.

How long does it take to cook Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta?

This savory dish takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. The chicken needs a bit of time to braise and become tender while the pasta cooks simultaneously. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet quick.

Can I make Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, making this dish ahead of time is a smart idea! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste when you enjoy it later.

Conclusion for Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta:

In summary, Irresistible One-Pan Braised Chicken Thighs & Fennel Pasta is an easy yet flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken and fragrant fennel perfectly. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it’s ideal for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe with your preferred pasta or herbs. Enjoy this delightful meal that promises to become a family favorite!

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📖 Recipe Card