Description
This Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, flavorful chicken thighs simmered in a savory sauce with caramelized onions, garlic, and crisp apple wedges. The dish is finished in the oven for a comforting meal that balances savory herbs with the sweet tang of apple cider, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
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 Aromatics
- 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
Additional
- 1 apple (cut into wedges)
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Season the chicken thighs evenly with dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear each side for 5-7 minutes, ensuring a golden crust develops. Remove the chicken and set aside; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Caramelize Onions: In the same skillet, add butter and the thinly sliced onion. Sauté, stirring every 1-2 minutes, until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine if the onions begin to dry or burn.
- Add Garlic and Liquids: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant. Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Whisk together the corn starch (or flour) with two tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce until it thickens.
- Combine and Bake: Return the chicken to the skillet 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
- For thicker sauce, you can add more slurry gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- If preferred, substitute corn starch with flour, but mix well to avoid lumps.
- White wine can be used in place of chicken broth to enhance flavor when caramelizing onions.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complement the rich sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
