Cider-Braised Chicken with Brussels Sprouts

by Brenda Langton, Tastemaker in Residence - Recipe by: Market Chef Jenny Breen

Ingredients
4 slices bacon, chopped (optional)
8 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (about 3 1/2 pounds total) from Sunshine Harvest Farm
2 medium tart red apples, cored and cut into wedges
1 12 – ounce bottle apple cider (hard or not)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
2 tablespoons whole grain or dijon mustard
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved if large (2 cups)

Instructions

1. In a very large skillet cook bacon over medium heat until crisp; remove from pan, reserving drippings in skillet. Add chicken, skin side down, and cook 10 minutes or until browned, turning once; remove from skillet. Add apples to the skillet and cook 4 minutes or until browned on both sides; remove from skillet. Drain and discard drippings from skillet.
2. Add cider, thyme, mustard, and salt to skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Return chicken to skillet. Cover and simmer 10 minutes. Add Brussels sprouts. Cover and cook 5 minutes. Add apples and cook, uncovered, 3 to 5 minutes more or until chicken is done (at least 175 degrees F).
3. To serve, divide chicken thighs, Brussels sprouts, and apples among shallow bowls or plates. Spoon cider mixture over top. Sprinkle each serving with bacon.
4. Serve with hearty grilled whole grain bread and butter, or Wild rice.