Creamy Chicken Thighs with Roasted Squash and Tomato

This dish features succulent chicken thighs roasted to perfection, paired with sweet, caramelized squash and fresh red tomatoes. The addition of cream cheese adds a delightful creaminess that ties the flavors together beautifully. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that balances traditional cooking techniques with a modern twist, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a large baking sheet.
3. In the same bowl, coat the chicken thighs with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs on the baking sheet with the squash. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
5. After 25 minutes, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet and return it to the oven. Roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the squash is tender.
6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with a pinch of salt and some freshly cracked pepper.
8. Serve the chicken thighs topped with roasted squash and tomatoes, and dollop the cream cheese mixture on top. Garnish with fresh basil.