Description
Experience the ultimate weeknight comfort with these Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Thighs. This one-pan wonder features golden-seared, bone-in chicken thighs braised in a flavorful reduction of apple cider, aromatic herbs, and tender, sweet-tart apple slices. It is an elegant yet simple dish that brings the cozy, sophisticated flavors of autumn to your dinner table in under an hour, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons avocado oil
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
2 medium Gala or Honeycrisp apples, sliced into quarter-inch wedges
1 cup pure apple cider
1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence
1/2 onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down, and sear until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Add the sliced onions to the same pan and sauté until softened.
Pour in the apple cider, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the apple wedges and Herbs de Provence to the pan.
Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up, and reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cover and braise for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the apples are tender.
Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to glaze the chicken.
Notes
Use Gala or Honeycrisp apples for the best balance of structure and sweetness. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once cooked and simmer the pan sauce for an extra few minutes until reduced properly. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh with sauce and apples
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg