Cider-braised chicken

Cider-braised chicken features a whole chicken cooked in a rich sauce made with apple juice and cream, resulting in a sweet and savory dish. Perfect for a comforting meal, this recipe involves browning the chicken before braising it in a flavorful liquid until tender.

19 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

3 tbsp olive oil
1 whole chicken
1 tbsp sage
2/3 cup apple juice
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
4 fl oz white wine
1 tsp mustard

Cider-braised chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender, succulent chicken with the sweetness of apple juice and the richness of heavy cream. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings together flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Brown the Chicken:
- In a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Place the whole chicken in the skillet, breast side down, and sear it for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
- Turn the chicken to sear all sides evenly, using tongs to hold it up if necessary. This should take about 10-15 minutes in total.
- Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

4. Prepare the Braising Liquid:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the 1 tablespoon of dried sage to the skillet.
- Pour in 4 fl oz (120g) of white wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add 2/3 cup (160g) of apple juice, 1/2 cup (120g) of heavy whipping cream, and 1 teaspoon (5g) of mustard. Stir well to combine the ingredients.

5. Braise the Chicken:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, breast side up.
- Spoon some of the braising liquid over the chicken.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil.

6. Bake in the Oven:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour.
- Check the chicken every 20 minutes, basting it with the braising liquid to keep it moist and flavorful.

7. Check for Doneness:
- After an hour, check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- If the chicken is not done, continue baking and checking every 10 minutes until it reaches the correct temperature.

8. Rest and Serve:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.
- Carve the chicken into portions and drizzle some of the cider braising liquid over the top for added flavor.
- Serve the chicken with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

In just a few steps, you've created a delightful cider-braised chicken dish that is both comforting and impressive. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy the harmony of flavors. Bon appétit!

Cider-braised chicken FAQ:

What is the baking time for cider-braised chicken?

Cider-braised chicken should be baked for 1 hour in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). It's important to check the chicken every 20 minutes and baste it with the braising liquid for moisture.

How can I tell if the chicken is done?

To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh; it should reach 165°F (74°C). If it's not done, continue baking and checking every 10 minutes.

Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in pieces of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may require slightly less time compared to a whole chicken.

What is the best way to store leftovers of cider-braised chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I substitute white wine in this recipe?

Yes, if you prefer not to use white wine, you can replace it with additional apple juice or chicken broth. This will modify the flavor slightly, but it will still work well in the dish.

Cooking Tips:

- Use a heavy-bottomed pot for braising to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

- For extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in apple juice and sage for a few hours before cooking.

- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the liquid by simmering it uncovered for a longer period after adding the cream.

- Serve the chicken with mashed potatoes or a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

- Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 920kcal
Protein 70g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 0.34g
Sugar 5g
Fat 77g

Cider-braised chicken