Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken thighs glazed in a sweet apple cider reduction served alongside a refreshing autumn slaw.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on These will be the stars of the dish, providing juicy, tender meat.
- 1 cup apple cider Opt for a good quality cider; this will be the base of our glaze.
- 2 tablespoons honey Enhances the sweetness, creating that irresistible sticky texture.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Adds a lovely tang that balances sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavors with a warm, aromatic undertone.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for seasoning the chicken properly.
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil Use vegetable or olive oil to sear your chicken.
For the Slaw
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded Provides that beautiful crunch.
- 1 cup carrots, shredded Adds color and natural sweetness.
- 1 medium apple (preferably Granny Smith), thinly sliced The tartness contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Adds acidity to brighten the slaw.
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds Adds a unique flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for enhancing flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped For a fresh finish.
Instructions
Prepare the Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of apple cider, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Put it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the mixture to simmer until it reduces and thickens into a lovely sticky glaze.
Sear the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken skin-side down, and let it sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin turns golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
Glaze It Up
- Pour the prepared apple cider glaze over the chicken. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken cook gently, spooning the glaze over regularly.
Prepare the Slaw
- In a large bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced apple. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over your slaw and toss gently.
Serve it Up
- Plate the sticky apple cider chicken thighs alongside a generous portion of the crisp autumn slaw.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers. Reheat chicken in the oven to preserve crispy skin. Slaw is best served fresh.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 15g
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