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French Apple Cider Chicken

Cozy Up with French Apple Cider Chicken Bliss

French Apple Cider Chicken is a comforting dish that combines juicy chicken thighs with apple cider and fragrant herbs for a delightful dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Bone-in, skin-on recommended; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots or green onions can be used for quicker alternatives.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use fresh cloves for best flavor.
For the Apples
  • 2 medium Apple Granny Smith or Fuji recommended; avoid overly soft varieties.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Apple Cider Dried French apple cider preferred; substitute with apple juice and white wine if necessary.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Replace with half-and-half or dairy-free alternatives if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Adds tangy depth to the dish.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Use dried thyme in a pinch but adjust the amount.
  • 1 teaspoon Rosemary Optional; use less for a milder flavor.

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides and let sit.
  2. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, then set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add sliced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in sliced apples and any optional herbs. Cook for 2-3 minutes until apples begin to soften.
  5. Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping the bottom to deglaze. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Nestle seared chicken back into the pan, skin side up, and simmer gently for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  7. Remove chicken and stir in Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Allow sauce to simmer uncovered until thickened.
  8. Return chicken to the skillet to warm through, then garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth if necessary.

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