Equipment
Ingredients
Chicken and Produce
- 500 g boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 apples, cored and sliced 1cm thick
- 1 yellow onion, halved and sliced
Spices and Liquids
- 30 ml olive oil
- 120 ml chicken broth
- 15 ml apple cider vinegar
- 4 g kosher salt
- 2 g ground cinnamon
- 2 g ground cumin
- 2 g smoked paprika
- 2 g black pepper
Nutrition (per serving)
Method
Pat the chicken thighs dry. In a small bowl, combine cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear for 5 to 6 minutes per side until a golden brown crust forms and the meat is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 74°C/165°F. Remove the chicken to a plate.
In the same skillet, add the sliced apples and onions. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften, become translucent, and the apples begin to lightly caramelize.
Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth into the skillet. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the pan, releasing any flavorful browned bits into the liquid.
Return the chicken and any resting juices to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and coat the chicken and apples. Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Chef's Notes
- Food Safety: Always use separate cutting boards for the raw chicken and the fresh produce to prevent cross-contamination.
- Apple Selection: Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady apples hold their shape beautifully during cooking without breaking down into applesauce.
- Dietary Modifications: Ensure you use a certified gluten-free chicken broth if catering to strict celiac dietary requirements.
- Searing Technique: Do not crowd the pan when searing the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a proper golden crust rather than steaming the meat.
Storage
Refrigerator: 4 days — Store in an airtight container.
Freezer: 2 months — Apples may soften significantly upon thawing.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
