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Braised Chicken Thighs with Apples Recipe


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4.2 from 6 reviews

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Description

This Braised Chicken Thighs With Apple recipe features tender, bone-in chicken thighs cooked to perfection in a flavorful braising liquid made with fresh apple cider, chicken stock, aromatic herbs, shallots, and apples. The combination of savory and sweet elements creates a comforting and elegant dish, perfect for a cozy dinner served alongside mashed potatoes and stir-fried greens.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 5-6 Bone-in chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Butter

Produce

  • 2 Apples, sliced
  • 3-4 Shallots, peeled and sliced
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic, crushed
  • 1-2 Sprigs Rosemary
  • 2 Sprigs Thyme

Liquids & Condiments

  • 1 cup Chicken stock
  • 1.5 cups Fresh Apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Soy sauce


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature while preparing the chicken.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat the bone-in chicken thighs dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel to help crisp the skin. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat the oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin side down and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the skin begins to brown and crisp. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it covered to retain heat.
  4. Sauté Aromatics and Herbs: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the crushed garlic, sliced shallots, and the rosemary and thyme sprigs. Sauté these together for about 2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
  5. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the fresh apple cider and chicken stock, then stir in the Dijon mustard and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-8 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by about one-quarter.
  6. Braise with Apples: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them skin side up. Add the sliced apples around the chicken. Transfer the skillet uncovered into the preheated oven and braise for 35-40 minutes. The chicken should cook through, the skin should be extra crispy, and it will develop a deep brown color.
  7. Serve: Serve the braised chicken thighs and apples on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes alongside stir-fried greens for a complete, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Bone-in chicken thighs provide more flavor and juiciness compared to boneless.
  • Be sure to pat the chicken skin dry before searing to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • You can substitute fresh apple cider with good quality unsweetened apple juice if unavailable.
  • Adjust the seasoning at the end if necessary, depending on the saltiness of the soy sauce used.
  • Using an ovenproof skillet makes it easy to transfer from stovetop to oven without extra dishes.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American