Chicken In Cider
A hearty chicken stew simmered in cider with bacon, mushrooms, and herbs, offering rich flavors perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chicken in butter and oil in a frypan.
- Remove chicken joints and place in a large cooking pot.
- Cut bacon into small cubes and brown in the frying pan, then add to the chicken.
- Brown the button onions and add to the chicken and bacon.
- Place crushed garlic and sprig of thyme among chicken pieces.
- Season with freshly milled pepper and a little salt.
- Add bay leaves, dry cider, and stock to the pot.
- Cover and simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- During the last 15 minutes, add mushrooms and stir into the liquid.
- Remove chicken and other ingredients onto a warm serving dish.
- Keep warm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken in cider overnight before cooking. You can substitute the button onions with shallots for a sweeter taste or use chicken thighs instead of joints for a juicier result. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir in during the last few minutes of cooking. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Chicken Marengo.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken in cider with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce. A side of sautéed green beans or a fresh salad would provide a nice contrast. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. This dish also pairs well with a glass of dry cider for a cohesive dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken in cider can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cider or stock if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain the texture of the chicken and vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken In Cider contains roughly 1099 calories, with 29g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (500% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2034mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of alcohol in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute dry cider with white wine or even beer for a different flavor profile. However, the taste will vary slightly; dry cider gives a unique sweetness and acidity that complements the chicken well.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken and bacon before cooking?
Browning the chicken and bacon is crucial as it adds depth of flavor and color to the dish. This step caramelizes the natural sugars and creates a rich base for the sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken in cider a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, and it will taste just as delicious, if not better, as the flavors meld overnight.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).