Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a little crisper, there’s nothing quite like a dish that warms the heart and delights the senses. Enter the Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw! This recipe perfectly marries the rich, sweet notes of apple cider with savory chicken thighs, all while a vibrant slaw adds a refreshing crunch. It’s an easy, comforting meal that brings the flavors of fall straight to your dinner table. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk until fully blended to create a delectable marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal it well and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for optimum flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), filling your kitchen with a cozy aroma.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, searing them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are beautifully golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken bakes, prepare the slaw by tossing together the shredded green and red cabbages, shredded carrots, green onions, and fresh parsley in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, and a dash of salt and pepper. Drizzle this zesty dressing over the slaw and toss well to ensure everything is nicely coated.
- Serve the chicken hot from the oven, gleaming with a sticky glaze, alongside the crisp autumn slaw for a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the marinade or slaw dressing.
- If you have leftovers, the chicken makes a fantastic addition to salads or wraps the next day!
- Feel free to mix up the types of cabbage or add in other crunchy veggies you love!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe features marinating and searing techniques that enhance the chicken’s flavor and maintain its juiciness. Marinating not only infuses the chicken with rich, tangy notes, but it also tenderizes the meat. Searing creates a delicious golden crust while locking in moisture, leading to the perfect balance of textures when baked.
FAQ
- Can I use bone-in chicken thighs? Yes, bone-in thighs will work well! Just adjust your cooking time, as they may need a few extra minutes to reach the desired temperature.
- What can I serve with this dish? Beyond the crisp slaw, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a warm grain salad.
- Can leftovers be stored? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the fall season! From the tantalizing marinated chicken to the zingy, colorful slaw, each bite is a cozy reminder of home and hearth. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table. Enjoy the symphony of flavors and embrace the beauty of autumn cooking!