03 Jun 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.
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.
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!