Creamy Apple Cider Chicken with Bacon and Apples: A Comforting Dish for Every Occasion

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There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Creamy Apple Cider Chicken with Bacon and Apples is one of those recipes that not only delights your taste buds but also brings a sense of comfort to your home. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing for a special gathering, this dish offers a perfect balance of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and the sweet, tart flavor of apples, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare, you’ve found it. Let’s dive into the magic of this dish and show you just how simple it can be to create something that feels both elegant and satisfying.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Ingredients for Creamy Apple Cider Chicken with Bacon and Apples

Before you start, take a moment to gather everything you’ll need for this rich, flavorful meal. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients:

Recipe Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Chicken thighs and legs	2 lbs
Salt	To taste
Shallots (or onion)	4, diced
Celery	1 rib, diced
Thyme	4-5 sprigs
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
Bacon lardons or strips	125g (4 oz) or 6 strips
Brandy or whiskey	2 tbsp (optional)
Flour	2 tbsp
Chicken stock	85 ml (1/3 cup)
Hard dry apple cider	400 ml (1 ½ cups)
Apples	2, peeled, cored, and cut into wedges
Heavy cream (double cream)	125 ml (½ cup)

Why These Ingredients Work Together:

The key to this dish is the balance between savory and sweet. Chicken thighs and legs bring a richness that complements the tartness of apples and the smokiness of bacon. The addition of apple cider introduces a unique depth of flavor, while the cream makes everything come together in a luxurious, velvety sauce. The fresh thyme, garlic, and shallots round out the savory notes, creating a perfect symphony of flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Apple Cider Chicken with Bacon and Apples

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together. Don’t worry – while there are a few steps, they are simple and straightforward. Follow along, and you’ll soon have a meal that’s bound to impress.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven is warming up, pat the chicken thighs and legs dry using a paper towel. This step ensures that your chicken will sear properly in the next step, giving you that beautiful golden crust. Once dry, season your chicken generously with salt.

2. Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and sear them on all sides until golden brown. This will take about 5-7 minutes. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. The golden bits left in the pan are packed with flavor and will come in handy later.

3. Cook the Bacon

Using the same pan, add the bacon lardons or chopped bacon strips. Cook over medium heat until crispy and the fat has rendered. This will take about 4-5 minutes. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside with the chicken. If there’s excess fat in the pan, drain it off, leaving just enough to sauté the vegetables in the next step.

4. Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced shallots (or onion), celery, and 2 sprigs of thyme to the same pan. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes until softened but not browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. You’ll start to smell that fragrant combination of thyme, garlic, and onion—this is the base of your flavor profile.

5. Deglaze the Pan

Now, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour in the brandy (or whiskey, if you’re using it). Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a spatula, incorporating all that deep flavor. Let the alcohol cook off for about 2 minutes, leaving behind a rich, flavorful base.

6. Prepare the Sauce

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the pan, stirring until it forms a thick paste. This will help to thicken the sauce and give it that creamy consistency. Gradually add the chicken stock, stirring constantly to ensure there are no lumps. As the sauce thickens, pour in the apple cider and mix well. You should now have a luscious, golden sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet.

7. Combine and Cook

Return the chicken and bacon to the casserole dish. Add 2-3 more sprigs of thyme, then bring everything to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the dish, and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let it cook for 30 minutes with the lid on. After that, uncover the dish and cook for another 30 minutes. This method helps the chicken cook through while allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

8. Cook the Apples

While the chicken is baking, heat 2 tablespoons of the reserved chicken fat (or butter) in a skillet over medium heat. Add the apple wedges and sauté them until golden and caramelized, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Set the apples aside when done.

9. Add Cream and Finish

After the casserole has finished baking, remove it from the oven. Stir in the heavy cream and return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 20 minutes. This final step allows the sauce to thicken further, becoming rich and creamy. When the dish is ready, stir in the sautéed apple wedges just before serving. The apples add a fresh burst of flavor and a slight sweetness that perfectly complements the rich chicken and bacon.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Apple Cider Chicken with Bacon and Apples

Now that your dish is ready, it’s time to serve it. Here are some delicious ideas for sides that will elevate this meal even further.

What to Serve It With

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect side, allowing you to enjoy every bit of that luscious sauce.
• Rice: If you prefer a lighter side, serve the chicken with a simple rice pilaf or steamed white rice. The rice will soak up the sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Vegetables: To balance out the richness of the chicken, consider serving roasted carrots, green beans, or a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

Garnishing Tips

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top of the dish adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into that creamy apple cider sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Comforting and Hearty Meal

This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The chicken is tender, the bacon adds a savory richness, and the apples bring just the right amount of sweetness. The creamy apple cider sauce ties everything together, making each bite a harmonious balance of flavors.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or preparing a dinner for special guests, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, yet it feels indulgent, making it perfect for both casual and more formal dining experiences.

Easy to Make and Cook

Although this recipe has multiple steps, none of them are complicated. From searing the chicken to sautéing the apples, each step is simple and achievable. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a dish that looks and tastes like something straight out of a restaurant kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and legs?

Yes, you can. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster than thighs and legs, so be sure to adjust your cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken. Thighs and legs are ideal for this dish because they stay tender and juicy during the longer cooking time.

Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can skip the brandy or whiskey. Simply deglaze the pan with a little extra chicken stock or apple cider, and continue the recipe as directed.

Can I substitute other fruits for apples?

While apples are the star of this dish, pears make an excellent substitute. They offer a similar sweetness and texture, making them a great alternative if you want to try something different.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the oven to prevent the cream from separating.

Can I freeze this dish?

While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the cream and apples may change upon reheating. If you decide to freeze it, be sure to cool it completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple yet sophisticated recipe for Creamy Apple Cider Chicken with Bacon and Apples that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy apple cider sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a meal that feels just like home.

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