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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's an undeniable craving for comforting, hearty meals that warm both the body and the soul. One such dish that perfectly embodies the essence of fall is Apple Cider Braised Chicken Drumsticks. This recipe not only captures the rich, seasonal flavors of autumn but also delivers a satisfying meal that can effortlessly transition from a cozy weeknight dinner to a festive gathering centerpiece.

Apple Cider Braised Chicken Drumsticks

As autumn sets in, warm up with delicious Apple Cider Braised Chicken Drumsticks. This cozy recipe highlights the sweet notes of fresh apple cider blended with savory chicken and aromatic herbs. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, offering a comforting dish that impresses every time. With easy preparation steps and versatile sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, this meal is sure to be a favorite in your home. Embrace the flavors of fall with this hearty dinner!
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Ingredients
  

8 chicken drumsticks

1 cup apple cider (preferably fresh-pressed)

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, roughly chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season each drumstick generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper on all sides to enhance the flavor.

    Sear the Chicken: In a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken drumsticks, with space between each piece. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they form a beautiful golden-brown crust. Once seared, remove the drumsticks from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

      Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and sauté for approximately 5 minutes until the onions soften and turn translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

        Combine the Braising Liquid: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, dried thyme, ground cinnamon, and grated nutmeg until fully combined. Pour this fragrant mixture into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic, using a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—this will add rich flavor to your sauce.

          Add the Chicken: Return the seared chicken drumsticks to the skillet. Ensure that they are as submerged in the braising liquid as possible for even cooking. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

            Braise the Chicken: Cover the skillet with a lid (or use a piece of aluminum foil if your skillet lacks a lid) and reduce the heat to low. Allow the chicken to braise gently for 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure they are evenly coated in the sauce.

              Final Touches: After braising, check that the chicken is thoroughly cooked; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will reduce the sauce slightly, intensifying the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

                Serve: Carefully transfer the braised drumsticks to a serving platter. Spoon the luscious pan sauce over the chicken, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4