French Apple Cider Chicken for Cozy Dinner Nights

Experience the comforting magic of French Apple Cider Chicken, a delightful dish combining tender chicken thighs and apple cider sauce.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Chicken

Cuisine: French

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 pieces Chicken Thighs Bone-in, skin-on thighs add rich flavor and moisture.

For the Aromatics

1 medium Onion Imparts depth and sweetness.
2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced enhances flavor.

For the Fruit & Flavor

2 cups Apple Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji balance sweetness.
1 cup Apple Cider Dry French apple cider is the star of the sauce.
1 teaspoon Thyme Fresh herb for aromatic touch.
1 teaspoon Rosemary Fresh herb for aromatic touch.

For the Creamy Sauce

1 cup Heavy Cream Adds richness and creaminess.
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Brings a slight tang to the sauce.

For Cooking

2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Butter Ideal for browning the chicken.

Equipment

Skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes.
Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5–7 minutes. Flip and cook for 3–4 minutes, then set aside.
Caramelize the Onions: In the same skillet, add sliced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add Apples and Herbs: Stir in apple slices, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 2–3 minutes until apples soften slightly.
Pour in Apple Cider: Add dry apple cider and chicken broth, scraping brown bits off the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Simmer the Chicken: Return chicken thighs skin-side up to the cider mixture, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Remove chicken and stir in Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until thickened.
Final Touches and Serve: Return chicken to pan, coat with sauce, garnish, and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

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