Description
Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs feature tender boneless skinless chicken thighs infused with warming dried herbs, caramelized onions, and a flavorful apple cider sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, combining sweet and savory elements with a touch of fall flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs fat trimmed
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp oil
Sauce and Add-ins
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 yellow onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp flour or corn starch
- 1 apple cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F to prepare for finishing the chicken in the oven.
- Season and Sear the Chicken: Season chicken thighs with thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes on one side, then flip and sear for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Caramelize the Onions: Add butter and sliced onion to the same pan. Sauté the onions, stirring every 1-2 minutes, until softened and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. If the onions begin to dry out or burn, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to keep them moist.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for one minute to release its aroma and flavor.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Make a slurry by whisking together 1 tablespoon of corn starch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Whisk this slurry into the simmering sauce and stir until thickened.
- Combine and Bake: Return the chicken thighs to the pan along with the apple wedges. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 185°F.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with bone-in for more flavor but increase cooking time accordingly.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, use corn starch instead of flour for thickening the sauce.
- Adding a splash of white wine during caramelization adds extra depth but is optional.
- Use a cast iron or oven-safe skillet to ensure smooth transition from stovetop to oven.
- Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
