Apple Cider Vinegar Braised Chicken Recipe
Tender, juicy chicken braised in apple cider vinegar with herbs, garlic, and onions, creating a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. This comforting dish is easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 4 bone in skin on chicken thighs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion sliced
- 4 garlic cloves smashed
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp butter optional
Instructions
Step 1: Season the chicken
- Pat the chicken dry.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Brown the chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Place chicken skin-side down.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes until the skin turns golden.
- Flip and cook 3 minutes more.
- Remove chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Cook the aromatics
- Add sliced onion to the same pan.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic.
- Cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Build the braising liquid
- Pour in apple cider vinegar.
- Scrape the pan to loosen browned bits.
- Add chicken broth, honey, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Braise
- Return chicken to the pan, skin-side up.
- The liquid should come halfway up the chicken.
- Cover and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 25–30 minutes until chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 6: Finish the sauce
- Remove chicken to a serving plate.
- Simmer sauce uncovered for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Stir in butter if using.
- Taste and adjust salt.
- Spoon sauce over chicken before serving.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for flavor and moisture.
- Apple cider vinegar adds tang; reduce slightly if you prefer milder acidity.
- Sear the chicken first to build flavor before braising.
- Add a splash of chicken broth if the pan looks dry during cooking.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary pair well with the sauce.
- Simmer gently to keep the chicken tender.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve texture.