Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to embrace the beauty of fall than with a heartwarming dish that combines the essence of the season. This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken paired with a Crisp Autumn Slaw is the perfect recipe to gather your loved ones around the table, filling your home with delightful aromas and cozy flavors. Tender, juicy chicken marinated in sweet and tangy apple cider creates a dish that’s as comforting as a warm sweater. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that captures the spirit of autumn!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small red cabbage, shredded
- 2 carrots, shredded
- 1 apple, julienned
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste, making the marinade perfectly balanced.
- Place the chicken thighs into a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring the chicken is well coated, and refrigerate. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have the time for maximum flavor.
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (but keep that delicious marinade!) and sear the chicken, skin-side down, until it develops a beautiful golden brown crust, about 5-7 minutes.
- Carefully flip the chicken thighs over and pour the reserved marinade on top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken until it’s fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which should take about 25-30 minutes.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the autumn slaw. In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, julienned apple, and chopped parsley. The colors alone are enough to brighten your day!
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey to create a creamy dressing. Pour it over the slaw and toss it well to combine, offering a perfect complement to the savory chicken.
- Once the chicken is done, serve it alongside the crisp autumn slaw and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors and textures!
Notes or Tips
- For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
- Add nuts or seeds to the slaw for an extra crunch.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted sweet potatoes or a warm grain salad for a complete autumn meal.
Cooking Techniques
Searing the chicken skin ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy. Baking it in the oven allows for an even cook throughout. Creating a slaw using fresh, seasonal ingredients highlights the vibrant flavors of autumn.
FAQ
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, boneless chicken thighs will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- How should leftovers be stored? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
Conclusion
This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the warmth of the season into your home. Each bite is a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy that will have you reaching for seconds. Gather your loved ones, share a meal, and celebrate the flavors of fall together!