Imagine a dish that warms your soul and tantalizes your taste buds—welcome to the world of Hearty Chicken and Apples! This delightful American recipe combines tender, succulent chicken thighs with the sweet, crisp flavor of apples, creating a meal that’s not only comforting but also utterly irresistible. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish promises to be a showstopper at your dinner table. With minimal prep and a slow-cooked finish, it’s the kind of recipe that lets you sit back, relax, and savor the delicious aroma wafting through your home. Ready to impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large slow cooker or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken thighs and set aside. In the same pan, sauté chopped onions until translucent and slightly caramelized, about 3-4 minutes.
- Layer sliced apples at the bottom of the slow cooker or Dutch oven, creating an even base for the chicken.
- Place seared chicken thighs on top of the apple slices, skin-side up.
- Sprinkle dried thyme evenly over the chicken and apples.
- Pour chicken broth around the chicken, ensuring it doesn't wash away the seasoning.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours in a slow cooker, or in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for approximately 2-3 hours until chicken is tender and falls off the bone.
- Remove chicken from the cooking liquid and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Reduce cooking liquid on stovetop to create a light sauce, if desired.
- Serve chicken thighs with apples and onions, garnishing with fresh thyme if available.
Tips
- Season Well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper when seasoning the chicken. A generous amount enhances the flavors and ensures a deliciously savory dish.
- Sear for Flavor: Take the time to sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown. This step adds depth of flavor and a beautiful color to your dish.
- Layering is Key: Make sure to layer the sliced apples at the bottom of your slow cooker or Dutch oven. This not only helps to infuse the chicken with apple flavor but also prevents it from sticking to the bottom.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker or oven, so keep an eye on the chicken. It should be tender and easily pull away from the bone when it’s done.
- Create a Sauce: If you want to elevate your dish, consider reducing the cooking liquid on the stovetop after removing the chicken. This creates a light, flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with the chicken and apples.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh thyme just before serving adds a pop of color and freshness, making your dish not only tasty but visually appealing too.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 211kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 53mg