Introduction
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisper, there’s something magical about infusing your meals with the flavors of autumn. This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is a delightful combination of tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, perfectly paired with a refreshing slaw that adds a wonderful crunch and a burst of color to your plate. It’s a wholesome dish that captures the essence of fall, making it the perfect choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup apple, julienned
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and gently massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but for best results, let it sit overnight to soak in all the flavors.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your kitchen for the delicious aromas to come!
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it skin-side up in a baking dish. Don’t worry; we’ll use the marinade again!
- Pour about 1/2 cup of the remaining marinade over the chicken thighs to keep them moist and flavorful as they bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, the skin is golden brown, and the juices run clear when pierced.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the autumn slaw. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, julienned apple, and chopped green onion. The colors alone will make you smile!
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and a bit of salt and pepper. This dressing is the perfect balance of creamy and tangy!
- Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Once the chicken is ready, plate it up alongside the crisp, vibrant slaw. Enjoy the delightful contrast of rich chicken with the refreshing slaw for a meal you won’t forget!
Notes or Tips
For a little extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. If you prefer a sweeter slaw, you can toss in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries. This dish can also be prepped ahead of time; just marinate the chicken the night before and assemble the slaw just before serving for maximum crunch!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the marinating technique, which allows flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it juicy and succulent. Baking is a wonderful method for cooking chicken, as it helps render out the fat from the skin, resulting in crispy, golden deliciousness. Tossing the slaw at the end keeps the vegetables crunchy and fresh, which offers a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work as well! Just reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken overnight, and the slaw can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve!
What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete autumn meal!
Conclusion
This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of the season. The harmony of the savory chicken and crunchy slaw creates a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually captivating. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and warm your heart. Happy cooking!