Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs

Name: Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs total)); 1 pinch salt; 1 pinch pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion (thinly sliced); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 cup apple cider (unsweetened ); ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium); 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 fresh sprigs); ½ small apple (thinly sliced)

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This cozy and flavourful Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and dairy-free, making it ideal for a variety of dietary needs including diabetes management. Tender chicken thighs are simmered in a lightly sweet and savoury apple cider sauce, perfect for a hearty fall or winter dinner.

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Preparation Level Intermediate, One-Pot Meals

Servings 4

Preparation 10

Cook 40

Total 50

Why Diabetes Friendly?

Low in Added Sugar: The recipe uses unsweetened apple cider, which contains only natural fruit sugars in a moderate amount, minimizing glycemic impact.
High in Protein: Chicken thighs are rich in complete protein, which helps promote satiety and blood sugar stability.
Low in Refined Carbs: There are no added sugars, flours, or starches, making this dish suitable for blood glucose control.
Heart-Healthy Fats: Prepared with olive oil, which provides monounsaturated fats known to support cardiovascular health in people with diabetes.
Balanced Carbohydrates: The apple slices add natural sweetness and fibre, but the portion is small and balanced by protein and fat.
Low-Sodium Option: Made with low-sodium chicken broth and minimal added salt, which is important for managing blood pressure in people with diabetes.

Equipment

▢
Oven-safe skillet

Ingredients

Cooking Tips

Sear the Chicken for Flavour: Start by browning the chicken thighs skin-side down to develop flavour and crisp the skin before braising.
Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith or other tart apple varieties work well to balance the slight sweetness of the apple cider.
Control Apple Texture: Slice apples thinly and add them just before transferring to the oven to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Deglaze the Pan Properly: After sautéing the onions and garlic, scrape up browned bits when adding the apple cider and broth for a richer sauce.
Spoon Sauce Before Serving: Finish the dish by basting the chicken with pan sauce to lock in moisture and enhance flavour.
Optional Skin Removal: For a lower-fat or heart-healthier version, consider removing the skin after cooking while retaining the flavour from searing.

Instructions

Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
4 chicken thighs, 1 pinch salt, 1 pinch pepper
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear thighs skin-side down until golden (about 5–6 minutes), then flip and brown the other side for 2 minutes. Remove thighs and set aside.
1 tbsp olive oil
Lower heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and lightly caramelized, about 4 minutes.
1 small onion, 1 clove garlic
Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Stir in thyme and add apple slices.
1 cup apple cider, ½ cup chicken broth, 1 tsp dried thyme, ½ small apple
Nestle the chicken thighs into the liquid, skin-side up. Transfer the skillet (uncovered) to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is lightly reduced.
Remove from the oven, spoon some of the pan sauce over the chicken, and serve.

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, but reduce oven time to 20–25 minutes as they cook faster.
Can I substitute apple juice for cider?
No, apple juice is typically sweetened and has a higher glycemic load. Use only unsweetened apple cider.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
Is this suitable for a slow cooker?
Yes, sear the chicken first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours.
What are some diabetes-friendly side dishes for this meal?
Cauliflower mash, roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed greens, or a simple leafy salad.
Is the chicken skin okay to eat for people with diabetes?
It adds flavour and fat. For heart health, you may remove the skin after cooking.

Nutrition

Per serving

Calories: 397.8kcal

Carbohydrates: 12g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 8.4g

Fat: 27.8g

Saturated Fat: 7g

Trans Fat: 0.1g

Protein: 24.4g

Nutrition Facts

Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs

Serving Size

1 chicken thigh

Amount per Serving

Calories

397.8

% Daily Value*

Fat

27.8

Saturated Fat

Trans Fat

0.1

Cholesterol

141.6

Sodium

133.4

Potassium

432.1

Carbohydrates

Fiber

Sugar

8.4

Protein

24.4

Vitamin C

Vitamin D

0.1

µg

Calcium

28.8

Iron

1.5

Magnesium

34.2

Zinc

1.9

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs

Why Diabetes Friendly?

Equipment

Ingredients

Cooking Tips

Instructions

FAQ

Nutrition

Per serving

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