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Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Autumn Slaw

A comforting and delicious dish perfect for fall, featuring tender chicken glazed with sweet and tangy apple cider, served alongside a crunchy autumn slaw.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • to taste Kosher salt and pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup apple cider
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup water
For the Slaw
  • 2 whole apples, cut into matchsticks
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
  2. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat.
  4. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 2 to 3 minutes until it's golden brown.
  5. Flip the chicken and sear the other side.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, honey, and water.
  7. Pour this mixture over the chicken and let it bubble for 1 to 2 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
  2. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing it, and spoon the sticky sauce over the top.
Making the Slaw
  1. Combine the apples, celery, onion, and carrots in a bowl. Toss with salt and pepper.
  2. In another bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, and add more salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss well.
Serving
  1. Serve the chicken alongside the fresh slaw.

Notes

Make sure to sear the chicken well for a nice crust before transferring it to the oven. Resting the chicken after baking helps keep it juicy. Adjust the sweetness of the slaw by modifying the honey in the dressing to suit your taste.