Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them until golden brown on both sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they turn soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine hominy, sour cream, chicken broth, shredded cheddar cheese, and the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish. Place the seared chicken thighs on top, pressing them gently into the mixture.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the chicken thighs are fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Optional Broil: For a crispy, golden top, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.