Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and a tangy sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting friends over the weekend, this recipe has everything you need. The combination of apple cider vinegar, savory garlic, and fresh herbs creates a rich and balanced flavor that will impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, this dish can be ready in just an hour.
- One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The apple cider vinegar adds a unique tang that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for braising as it retains heat well, ensuring even cooking.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes slicing onions and mincing garlic quick and easy.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6 bone-in (skin-on) chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar (preferably raw and unfiltered)
- 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
For Flavoring
- 2 tablespoons Dijon or whole grain mustard (optional)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For Sweetness (Optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Once the oil is hot:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Add the chicken skin-side down to the skillet.
3. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Remove the chicken from the skillet temporarily:
1. Add sliced onions to the same pan.
2. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the chicken to the skillet:
1. Pour in apple cider vinegar and chicken broth.
2. Stir in mustard, thyme, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Braise
Bring to a simmer:
1. Cover with a lid.
2. Reduce heat to low.
3. Allow to braise for about 30-35 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Once done:
1. Remove from heat.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken!
How to Serve Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken
Serving Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken can elevate your dining experience. This delicious dish pairs beautifully with various sides, creating a well-rounded meal that pleases everyone at the table.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a perfect base for the chicken, soaking up all the flavorful sauce.
With Crusty Bread
- A warm loaf of crusty bread is great for sopping up the delectable juices from the braised chicken.
On a Bed of Rice
- Steamed rice makes a light and fluffy accompaniment, allowing the tangy sauce to shine through.
Accompanied by Seasonal Vegetables
- Serve with sautéed or roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
Paired with a Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
With Quinoa or Couscous
- For a healthier twist, quinoa or couscous can add texture and absorb the savory sauce nicely.
How to Perfect Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken
To achieve the best results when making Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure that your dish turns out flavorful and tender every time
.
- Choose high-quality vinegar: Using raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar enhances flavor depth in your dish.
- Marinate ahead of time: Letting the chicken soak in the marinade for a few hours or overnight can intensify its taste.
- Brown the chicken first: Searing the chicken thighs before braising creates a delicious crust and adds richness to the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste your sauce during cooking. Adding salt, pepper, or even a touch of honey can balance flavors perfectly.
- Cook low and slow: Allowing the chicken to simmer gently ensures it becomes tender and absorbs all those lovely flavors.
- Rest before serving: Letting your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps keep it juicy when you slice into it.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken
Choosing side dishes that complement Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with this comforting dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent base for this dish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and earthy flavor that balance nicely with the chicken.
- Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn topped with butter is a classic summer side that contrasts well with savory dishes.
- Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs offers lightness and absorbs any extra sauce beautifully.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans bring freshness and color to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, making it an excellent counterpoint to richer flavors.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Oven-roasted sweet potato wedges provide sweetness that complements the tanginess of the chicken.
- Ratatouille: This vegetable medley is hearty yet healthy, adding vibrant colors and textures to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken can be simple, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the Searing Step: Not searing the chicken before braising can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always brown the chicken thighs in olive oil first to develop a rich taste.
- Using Regular Vinegar: Substituting apple cider vinegar with regular vinegar will alter the dish’s flavor profile. Stick to raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar for the best results.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the pot at once can trap steam and prevent proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary for optimal results.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly with salt and pepper can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning throughout cooking.
- Ignoring Cooking Time: Undercooking or overcooking the chicken can affect texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking periodically until hot.
- Stovetop: Add chicken and sauce to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken?
Serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread makes for a delightful meal. Each option complements the tangy sauce beautifully.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well but adjust cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in options.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken gluten-free, ensure your mustard is gluten-free and use a gluten-free broth.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, potatoes, or celery during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. This one-pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a tangy sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. This one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare but also brings together the rich flavors of apple cider vinegar, garlic, and herbs, creating a meal that impresses at family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its aromatic profile and juicy chicken, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in (skin-on) chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1/3 cup raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh thyme and parsley for flavor
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear skin-side down until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the skillet. Sauté sliced onions for about 3-4 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, pouring in apple cider vinegar and chicken broth. Stir in mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and braise for 30-35 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Braised
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in apple cider vinegar overnight. Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the tangy sauce.