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French Apple Cider Chicken

Cozy French Apple Cider Chicken for Comforting Dinners

Enjoy a delightful French Apple Cider Chicken recipe that combines succulent chicken with a creamy apple cider sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Bone-in, skin-on thighs are best for flavor; boneless thighs or breasts can be used but watch the cooking time.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion Adds depth; shallots or green onions can create a delicious twist.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced for that aromatic kick in the sauce.
For the Sauce
  • 2 pieces Apple Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for sweetness; Honeycrisp is also a great choice.
  • 1 cup Apple Cider Offers unique flavor depth; dry French apple cider is ideal, but apple juice with white wine works as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Provides richness; consider using half-and-half or plant-based cream for a lighter option.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Thyme Fresh or dried, it adds aromatic herbal notes to this comforting dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Rosemary Optional, but this herb complements the flavors beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Brings a subtle tanginess to the sauce.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Chicken: Season your chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down, cooking for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear for 3-4 minutes before resting on a plate.
  3. Cook Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add sliced onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add Apples and Liquid: Stir in apple slices, thyme, and optional rosemary. Cook for 2-3 minutes then pour in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan.
  5. Simmer Chicken: Nestle the chicken back into the pan, cover, lower heat, and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
  6. Finish Sauce: Remove chicken and stir in Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes to thicken.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Return chicken to the skillet to warm through and garnish with thyme. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust cooking time for boneless thighs and don't overcrowd the pan for crispy skin. Experiment with seasonal veggies and apple varieties for a unique twist.

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