Introduction
Welcome to the warm embrace of autumn with this delightful recipe for Sticky Apple Cider Chicken paired with a crisp Autumn Slaw. As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a bit cooler, there’s nothing quite like a dish that brings the comforting flavors of the season right to your table. Imagine succulent chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy apple cider concoction, perfectly roasted to a golden brown finish, served alongside a refreshing slaw that adds a fantastic crunch and vibrant colors to your meal. Gather your loved ones, and let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Juice of 1 lemon
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for a richer flavor, refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to warm up while the chicken absorbs the delicious marinade.
- After marinating, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in a baking dish. Pour a bit of the remaining marinade over the chicken for extra flavor.
- Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Be sure to baste the chicken with the marinade halfway through the cooking time for that sticky goodness.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the slaw by combining the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrot, and chopped parsley in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Pour this vibrant dressing over the slaw and toss until everything is nicely combined.
- Once the chicken is baked to perfection, serve it hot alongside the crisp autumn slaw. Enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a subtle heat.
- If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, they work beautifully too—just reduce the cooking time slightly.
- Feel free to customize the slaw by adding ingredients like sliced apples or nuts for an added crunch.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves a straightforward marinating technique that enhances the chicken’s flavor. Baking the chicken allows the skin to crisp up while keeping the meat moist and tender. Mixing the slaw combines the freshness of the cabbage with a creamy dressing, creating a balance that complements the sticky chicken perfectly.
FAQ
- Can I use other cuts of chicken? Yes, chicken breasts or drumsticks can be substituted, but be mindful of cooking times.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover chicken and slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I make the slaw ahead of time? Absolutely! Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the slaw crisp.
Conclusion
There you have it—a cozy dish that captures the essence of fall! This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is not only simple to make but also delivers a burst of flavor that will have everyone at the table reaching for more. Perfect for a family dinner or a friendly gathering, this recipe is sure to warm hearts and homes alike. Enjoy every delicious bite!