Creating Chicken Thighs w/ Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over them and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Transfer to Oven: Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Boil the Potatoes: While the chicken is baking, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Drain the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked through, drain and return them to the pot.
7. Mash the Potatoes: Add the butter, goat cheese, and milk to the drained potatoes. Mash until creamy and well combined. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve each thigh alongside a generous scoop of goat cheese mashed potatoes.
9. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chives over the dish for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

These steps will guide you in crafting this incredible dish, ensuring every element is executed to perfection.