Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game? This mouthwatering recipe for Single Skillet Chicken Thighs with Bacon Brussels Sprouts and Apple Jus is not just a meal; it's an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family or guests. Imagine succulent chicken thighs, perfectly seared to golden perfection, paired with crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts, all drizzled with a rich apple jus that ties everything together. In just 45 minutes, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. Keep reading to discover how to bring this delightful combination to your table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 strips of bacon
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup apple juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 4 strips of bacon, 1 pound of Brussels sprouts (halved), 1 cup of apple juice, salt and pepper to taste, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for finishing the dish later.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Avoid moving the chicken around to ensure a good sear.
- While the chicken is searing, chop the bacon into small pieces. Once the chicken is browned, carefully flip the thighs over and add the chopped bacon to the skillet.
- Cook the bacon for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to render its fat and becomes slightly crispy.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chicken and bacon. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Pour in the apple juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. This will add flavor to the dish.
- Sprinkle the fresh thyme over the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- To serve, plate the chicken thighs alongside the Brussels sprouts and bacon, drizzling some of the apple jus from the skillet over the top for added flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Single Skillet Chicken Thighs with Bacon Brussels Sprouts and Apple Jus!
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness. They tend to stay moist during cooking compared to boneless cuts.
- Sear for Success: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good sear locks in the juices and gives the skin a crispy texture that is hard to resist.
- Bacon Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of bacon, such as applewood smoked or turkey bacon, to add unique flavors to your dish.
- Brussels Sprouts Prep: Make sure to cut the Brussels sprouts in half to ensure they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors from the bacon and apple jus.
- Apple Juice Alternatives: For a deeper flavor, consider substituting apple juice with apple cider or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra tangy kick.
- Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to round out your meal and impress your guests even more!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 180mg
