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French Apple Cider Chicken

Savory French Apple Cider Chicken for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

A comforting French Apple Cider Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy apple cider sauce, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Juicy and flavorful for the creamy sauce.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion Can substitute with shallots for milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adds warmth and complexity.
For the Apples
  • 2 Apple Crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji are best.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Apple Cider The star ingredient for sweetness.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Use homemade or low-sodium.
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream Can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Adds tanginess to the sauce.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Fresh or dried, complements the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley Freshly chopped for garnish.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides, then set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, then remove from pan.
  3. In the same skillet, cook chopped onion over medium heat for 5 minutes until caramelized. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
  4. Add sliced apples, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for 2-3 minutes until apples start to soften.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of apple cider and 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the pan bottom. Simmer for 1 minute.
  6. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
  7. Remove chicken and stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and ½ cup of heavy cream to thicken the sauce.
  8. Rewarm the chicken in the sauce, then serve garnished with parsley and thyme.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 25gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For better results, ensure chicken skin is dry before seasoning. Adjust sweetness with apple cider vinegar if desired.

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