Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off excess, to create a delightful crust when cooked. Set the chicken aside while you heat up your skillet, ensuring everything is ready for the next steps.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it shimmers. Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side down, into the skillet. Sear for about 5 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side. Once both sides are browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.

In the same skillet, add an additional tablespoon of butter if necessary. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, sautéing for about 10 minutes. As the mushrooms cook, they will release moisture and shrink, and the onions should turn translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly, developing rich flavors for your cozy braised chicken thighs.

Once your aromatics are ready, pour in ½ cup of white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift any browned bits. This will intensify the flavor of your sauce. Next, add 1 cup of chicken stock and fresh thyme, then return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, covering the skillet, and let it braise for about 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

While the chicken is braising, prepare the creamy polenta. In a separate saucepan, combine 2 cups of chicken stock, 1 cup of water, and ½ cup of whole milk, bringing it to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of coarse yellow cornmeal, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the polenta to thicken, and then stir in ½ cup of parmesan cheese for creaminess.

To serve, spoon your creamy polenta into bowls, creating a cozy base for the dish. Top the polenta generously with the braised chicken thighs and their savory mushroom sauce, making sure to spoon some of the delightful sauce over everything. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty dish, perfect for gathering your loved ones around the table.