Apple cider—it’s like the autumn version of a summer lemonade, right? Sweet and tangy, it feels like a warm hug on a crisp, breezy day. You know, my grandmother used to say that cider could turn any dish into a celebration, and who am I to argue with wisdom like that? So, whether you’re planning an impromptu dinner or just want to mix things up a bit, these apple cider dinner recipes are sure to make your taste buds dance like leaves in the wind.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge it in a mixture of flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper to ensure an even coating.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the prosciutto until it becomes crispy, approximately 5 minutes, and then set it aside. Using the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side. Add another tablespoon of butter and allow it to brown around the chicken for roughly 2 minutes before removing the chicken from the skillet.
- Add onions to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes until they turn golden. Incorporate 2 tablespoons of butter, garlic, thyme, and sage, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the onions caramelize, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the apple cider and let it simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in the cream. Return the chicken to the skillet along with apple slices, and sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Once done, top the chicken with the crispy prosciutto and fresh herbs. Serve the dish with crusty bread to savor the creamy sauce. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- Thinly sliced chicken breast or small chicken thighs
- All-purpose flour
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Prosciutto
- Salted butter
- Yellow onions
- Garlic
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh sage
- Honeycrisp apples
- Apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
- Heavy cream
- Gruyère cheese
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use small chicken thighs as an alternative to thinly sliced chicken breasts. They will work well with the flavors and method of cooking in the recipe.
- What type of apple cider should I use?
- It’s best to use apple cider, not apple cider vinegar. If possible, opt for fresh apple cider from a local farm or make your own for the best flavor.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version of the dish.
- Which cheese can be used instead of Gruyère?
- If Gruyère is not available, you can use Swiss cheese or another cheese that melts well, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Apple Cider Smothered Chicken?
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, fresh bread, or rice. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fall-themed salad or spaghetti squash.
Tips
- Use Gluten-Free Flour if Needed: For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free option to ensure the dish is safe for everyone to enjoy.
- Make Your Own Apple Cider: Enhance the flavor by using fresh apple cider, preferably homemade or sourced from a local farm, to add a vibrant and authentic taste to the dish.
- Cook Prosciutto Until Extra Crispy: Ensure the prosciutto is cooked to a crispy finish before setting it aside. This adds a delightful texture contrast when used as a topping at the end.
- Serve with Fresh Bread: Pair the dish with slices of fresh bread to effectively soak up and enjoy every bit of the rich, creamy sauce. Whether it’s homemade beer bread or another variety, the bread is essential for capturing the full flavor of the sauce.
Equipment
- Oven-safe Skillet – Highly recommended to use a cast iron skillet.
