Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs Recipe

Craving a comforting dinner that’s both easy and impressive? Try this Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs recipe. It’s packed with fall flavors and delivers tender, juicy chicken with a rich, sweet, and tangy apple cider sauce. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 cups apple cider (unfiltered is best)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Season the Chicken
    Dry the chicken thighs with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. A dry surface ensures a crispier skin when searing.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 6–8 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for 4–5 minutes more. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Cook the Aromatics
    In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and cook until translucent and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze with Apple Cider
    Pour in the apple cider and apple cider vinegar. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any caramelized bits. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
  5. Add Broth and Herbs
    Stir in the chicken broth and Dijon mustard. Add the thyme and rosemary sprigs. These herbs infuse the sauce with a lovely aroma and depth.
  6. Braise the Chicken
    Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Make sure they are partially submerged in the sauce but not completely covered. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and braise for 25–30 minutes. This slow cooking makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
  7. Finish the Dish
    Remove the lid and let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken. This will create a rich glaze that coats the chicken.
  8. Serve
    Transfer the chicken thighs to a serving platter. Spoon the apple cider sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for added color and flavor. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Tips:

  • Ensure the chicken skin is dry before searing for the crispiest texture.
  • Use unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor.
  • Fresh herbs enhance the dish’s complexity, so don’t skip them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs recipe combines sweet and savory flavors with a comforting, rich sauce. This dish is simple to prepare and ideal for a family meal. Give it a try tonight and savor a recipe that’s bound to become a household favorite!

Tailor the recipe to fit your taste or dietary preferences. Happy cooking!