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When the weather turns crisp, and you crave something truly comforting, yet surprisingly easy to make, this Baked Chicken with Cider and Smoky Bacon recipe is your answer. Imagine succulent chicken Maryland pieces, baked until fall-off-the-bone tender, swimming in a rich, savory sauce infused with the sweetness of apple cider and the irresistible aroma of smoky bacon. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends.
You’ll adore this baked chicken for its incredible depth of flavor and surprising simplicity. The chicken Maryland pieces bake to tender perfection, soaking up a rich, sweet-savory sauce infused with crisp bacon, aromatic thyme, and tangy apple cider. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that feels gourmet but is easy enough for any weeknight. The smoky notes of bacon perfectly complement the sweetness of the cider, creating an unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 chicken Maryland pieces, skin on
- 4 rashers of smoky bacon, chopped
- 1 medium sized brown onion, peeled, halved, and sliced
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 4-5 sprigs of thyme, plus more for serving
- 2 heaped teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 450 ml dry apple cider
- sea salt and black pepper
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180 C.
- Place a large frying pan over a medium heat and add the olive oil. We recommend a durable cast iron skillet for perfect browning.
- Add the chicken and brown the pieces all over until golden brown. Remove from the pan, and set aside.
- Place the onion, garlic, bacon, and thyme into the pan and saute until the onion is softened. Take care not to burn the garlic.
- ✓ Turn the heat up to high. Pour in the cider and cook for a couple of minutes before adding the Dijon mustard. Use a wooden spoon to stir and scrape
- ✓ Place the sauce in the bottom of a medium-sized casserole dish. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and spoon over some of the sauce. Season
- Cover tightly with foil and bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes.
- ✓ Remove the foil and spoon a little more of the sauce over the chicken and return to the oven for another 10 minutes. For perfect doneness, check the
- ✓ Remove the cooked thyme before serving and scatter over about a tablespoon more of fresh thyme leaves, and another generous grind of black pepper.
Baked Chicken with Cider and Smoky Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 chicken Maryland pieces, skin on
- 4 rashers smoky bacon, chopped
- 1 medium sized brown onion, peeled, halved and sliced
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 4-5 sprigs of thyme, plus more for serving
- 2 heaped teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 450 ml dry apple cider
- sea salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180 C.
- Place a large frying pan over a medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Add the chicken and brown the pieces all over until golden brown. Remove from the pan, and set aside.
- Place the onion, garlic, bacon and thyme into the pan and saute until the onion is softened. Take care not to burn the garlic.
- ✓ Turn the heat up to high. Pour in the cider and cook for a couple of minutes before adding and Dijon mustard. Use a wooden spoon to stir and scrape
- ✓ Place the sauce in the bottom of a medium-sized casserole dish. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and spoon over some of the sauce. Season
- Cover tightly with foil and bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and spoon a little more of the sauce over the chicken and return to the oven for another 10 minutes.
- Remove the cooked thyme before serving and scatter over about a tablespoon more of fresh thyme leaves, and another generous grind of black pepper.
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of Maryland pieces?
What kind of apple cider should I use?
What are good side dishes to serve with this baked chicken?
Conclusion
This Baked Chicken with Cider and Smoky Bacon is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth and rich flavors to your table with minimal fuss. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious cider sauce creates a truly unforgettable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress.
Looking for more comforting chicken recipes? Try our Easy One Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken or explore other savory options like Crispy Baked Salmon Fillets. For more delicious inspiration and cooking tips, be sure to visit Food Jot Home. We hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen!
For more great recipes and cooking inspiration, check out trusted sources like Food Network Recipes, BBC Good Food Recipes, and AllRecipes. You can also find fantastic culinary insights at Serious Eats Recipes and learn about healthy options from Eating Well Recipes.
