Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

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Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

Imagine a dish that transforms your ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure that tantalizes your taste buds and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma! This Apple Cider Chicken Skillet is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that combines the rustic charm of tender chicken with the sweet and tangy essence of autumn's favorite beverage. Perfect for those seeking a quick yet impressive dinner that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 4 chicken thighs, bone-in
  2. 1 cup apple cider
  3. 1 onion, sliced
  4. 2 apples, sliced
  5. 2 tbsp olive oil
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

  1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs, 1 cup of apple cider, 1 sliced onion, 2 sliced apples, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh thyme for garnish.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating it's ready for cooking.
  3. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
  4. Flip the chicken thighs over and cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side to brown them slightly.
  5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
  6. Next, add the sliced apples to the skillet with the onions and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples start to soften.
  7. Pour in 1 cup of apple cider, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits from the chicken and vegetables.
  8. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and ensure they are nestled into the apple and onion mixture. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  9. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  10. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
  11. To serve, place the chicken thighs on a plate, spoon the apple and onion mixture over the top, and garnish with fresh thyme. Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Chicken Skillet!

Tips

  1. Choose bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness. The bones help retain moisture during cooking.
  2. For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
  3. Use a cast-iron skillet if possible, as it provides even heat distribution and helps create a perfect golden-brown crust.
  4. Don't rush the deglazing process - scraping those browned bits from the bottom of the pan adds incredible depth of flavor to your sauce.
  5. Check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
  6. If the sauce is too thin, you can create a quick slurry with cornstarch and water to thicken it in the final minutes of cooking.
  7. Fresh thyme is recommended, but dried thyme can be a good substitute if fresh herbs aren't available.
  8. Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature, pairing well with roasted vegetables or a light salad.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 320kcal

Carbohydrates: 15g

Protein: 28g

Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 5g

Cholesterol: 140mg

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