Description
Golden-brown chicken simmers in crisp apple cider, mingling with soft ribbons of caramelized onions, garlic, and herbs. Each bite offers juicy meat and a tangy-sweet sauce, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 pieces chicken thighs bone-in skin-on
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 pieces bay leaves
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper, then lightly coat with all purpose flour.
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a heavy Dutch oven over medium-high heat until the butter foams, then add the chicken thighs skin-side down and brown for 5 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add the sliced onions to the same pot, and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in the apple cider and chicken stock, then add the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot, skin-side up, bring to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and reduce heat to low. Braise for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Uncover, increase heat to medium-high, and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Remove and discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves, then plate the chicken and spoon the caramelized onions and reduced cider sauce over the top.
Notes
- Bone-in chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs; adjust cooking time as needed.
- A dry hard apple cider adds depth of flavor; avoid overly sweet varieties.
- For extra color, finish the sauce under the broiler for 2 minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.