Chicken and Red Cabbage

This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender chicken thighs with vibrant red cabbage, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors makes it a standout on any dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a delightful blend of savory chicken and sweet-tangy red cabbage, offering a balance of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze, and the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 slices bacon
• 1 tablespoon bacon drippings
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 pounds skinless chicken thighs
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 large apple, cored and sliced
• 1 head red cabbage, cored and sliced
• ½ cup red wine vinegar
• ¼ cup dry red wine
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until browned, about 10 minutes. Remove and crumble the bacon, reserving 1 tablespoon of the drippings in the skillet.
3. In a bowl, mix the flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and smoked paprika. Dredge the chicken thighs in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Brown the chicken in the skillet over medium heat, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
5. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of drippings from the skillet. Add the sliced onion and apple; cook until the onion is translucent and the apple is softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the sliced red cabbage and crumbled bacon; season with salt. Cook, stirring often, until the cabbage is softened, about 5-8 minutes.
7. Add the red wine vinegar and dry red wine to the cabbage mixture. Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Bring to a boil and cook until the sauce is reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
8. Place the browned chicken thighs on top of the cabbage in the skillet.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the chicken is cooked through and the cabbage is tender, about 40 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a thigh should read at least 165°F (74°C).

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the cabbage mixture for some heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of bacon drippings.
• Different Meats: Try using pork chops or sausages instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Fruit Substitutions: Use pears instead of apples for a different sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish.

FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Skinless chicken thighs are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor, but you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance and reheat it before serving.

Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar as alternatives.

Can I use green cabbage instead of red?

Yes, green cabbage can be used, though it has a milder flavor and different color.

What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread pair well with this chicken and cabbage dish.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced spicy peppers to the cabbage mixture.

What kind of apple should I use?

Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well for their balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I omit the bacon?

Yes, but consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing the vegetables.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Red Cabbage recipe is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for a comforting meal. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different dietary preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit.

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