Apple Cider Chicken Recipe: Cozy and Flavorful for Christmas

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You’ll love this Apple Cider Chicken Recipe warm, delicious, and perfect for your Christmas dinner. This dish combines savory chicken with sweet apples and aromatic herbs, making it a comforting centerpiece for any festive table.

Apple Cider Chicken Recipe Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning Ingredients

4-5 Bone-In Chicken Thighs
2 tsp Onion Powder
2 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Smoked Paprika
1 tsp Fresh Thyme
2 tbsp Fresh Rosemary, chopped
Salt and Pepper

Sauce Ingredients

1 Red Onion, sliced
1-2 Honeycrisp Apples, sliced
2-3 additional Rosemary Sprigs
Olive oil
4 tbsp Salted Butter
3/4 cup Apple Cider
1/2 cup Chicken Broth or White Wine
2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
3 cloves Garlic, finely diced

How To Make Apple Cider Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

First, preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, season the chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly to enhance the flavor.

Searing the Chicken

Next, heat a splash of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Baking with Apples and Onions

Once the chicken is seared, remove the skillet from heat. Add the sliced onions and apples around the chicken and garnish with extra rosemary sprigs. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.

Delicious Apple Cider Chicken Recipe with savory herbs and apples.

Making the Sauce

After cooking, take out the chicken and apples. Place the skillet back on the stove over medium-low heat and add the butter. Then, pour in the apple cider and broth (or wine), followed by the Dijon mustard and diced garlic. Whisk the sauce well and let it simmer until it thickens beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Return the chicken and apples to the skillet, spooning the luscious sauce over them. Serve warm, and watch your guests delight in every savory bite!

Recipe Tips

Achieving Crispy Skin

For extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken skin is thoroughly dried with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps achieve that perfect crunch.

Choosing the Right Apples

Using Honeycrisp apples adds a delightful sweetness that balances the savory elements. Feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties for different flavor profiles.

Boneless Chicken Variation

If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can use them as well. Just remember to reduce the baking time to 15-20 minutes for optimal tenderness.

Substituting Ingredients

If you’re out of white wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute for the sauce. You can also use dried herbs instead of fresh, but fresh brings a vibrant flavor.

What to Cook Next

FAQs

Can I make this all in one pan?

Yes, this recipe can be made in one pan as the same skillet is used for searing, baking, and making the sauce.

Why is my sauce not thickening?

If your sauce isn’t thickening, try simmering it longer to allow more moisture to evaporate, or whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water.

Do I have to use fresh herbs?

While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can substitute dried herbs if needed, just use less since they are more concentrated.

Conclusion

This Apple Cider Chicken Recipe is sure to impress your guests this holiday season. For more festive inspiration, check out Elly’s delicious recipes on Pinterest. Happy cooking!