This Apple Cider Chicken is a tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken and sweet apple cider. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory that everyone will love!
Just imagine the smell of apples and spices filling your kitchen. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I like to serve it with rice or veggies for a lovely, comforting meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are preferred for this recipe. They’re juicy and full of flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breasts work too, but they might dry out quicker.
Apple Cider: Unsweetened apple cider is ideal, as it provides just the right amount of sweetness. If you can’t find apple cider, use apple juice, but reduce the sugar in the recipe to balance it out.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient and works well, but fresh thyme makes a noticeable difference in flavor. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or sage can be good substitutes.
Apples: I like using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which complements the cider nicely. However, Fuji or Honeycrisp apples can also add a delightful sweetness.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken thighs perfectly involves two key techniques: searing and baking. Searing the chicken first helps lock in moisture and adds a nice brown color.
- Start with a hot skillet and ensure the skin side is down to get a crispy finish. Don’t rush it; let it brown for 5-7 minutes before flipping!
- Once you’ve seared both sides, don’t worry if the chicken isn’t cooked through yet—baking will finish the job. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Also, don’t forget to check for doneness with a meat thermometer rather than cutting into the chicken. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Apple Cider Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 2 apples, cored and sliced into wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook, making it a total of approximately 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner without a lot of fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, let’s get your oven warmed up! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the chicken when we get to that step.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them get crispy when you cook them! Season both sides with salt and pepper to add flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. Then flip them over and brown the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Once finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Onions:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onions to the same skillet. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they soften—about 5 minutes.
5. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. You’ll start to smell that lovely aroma!
6. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the apple cider and add the Dijon mustard and thyme. Make sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet! Bring this mixture to a simmer.
7. Add the Apples:
Now it’s time to add the sliced apples to the skillet. This will add a wonderful sweetness to the dish.
8. Return the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up, making sure they nestle among the apples and onions.
9. Bake It:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the skillet out of the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and be sure to spoon some of that delicious apple cider sauce and apples over the chicken!
This dish creates a delightful balance between sweet apple cider and savory chicken, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! They will cook a bit faster, so check them for doneness around 20 minutes of baking to ensure they remain juicy.
What Type of Apples Work Best?
Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, but feel free to use Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter flavor. Mixing different types can also add more depth!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Sear the chicken first in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
