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As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red, the arrival of autumn brings with it a rush of seasonal flavors that inspire countless home cooks. It's a time when the air is crisp, and the scent of spices and roasted foods tantalizes the senses. The harvest season is a culinary celebration, inviting us to explore recipes that highlight the bounty of autumnal ingredients. One such dish that perfectly embodies these seasonal vibes is Apple Cider Chicken Drumsticks. This comforting recipe marries the sweet and savory notes of fresh apple cider with tender chicken, creating a meal that feels at once rustic and indulgent.

Apple Cider Chicken Drumsticks

Embrace the flavors of fall with Apple Cider Chicken Drumsticks, a comforting recipe that highlights the season’s bounty. This dish combines tender chicken with the sweet and savory notes of fresh apple cider, creating a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, it's simple to prepare with wholesome ingredients. Serve with roasted veggies or a warm salad for a delightful autumn meal that nourishes both body and spirit.
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Ingredients
  

8 chicken drumsticks

1 cup apple cider

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

2 apples, cored and sliced (ideally a blend of sweet and tart varieties)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring that they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally overnight to enhance the flavor infusion.

    Preheat the Oven: Before cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help achieve a perfect roasting environment for your chicken.

      Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, evenly spread the sliced onions across the bottom. Place the marinated chicken drumsticks on top of the onions, allowing any remaining marinade to drizzle over the chicken. Surround the drumsticks with the apple slices, distributing them evenly within the dish.

        Bake the Chicken: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and exhibits a beautifully caramelized exterior. For maximum flavor and juiciness, baste the chicken with the pan juices about halfway through the cooking time.

          Broil for Crispiness: For an extra layer of crispiness on the skin, switch your oven to broil mode for an additional 3-5 minutes at the end of the baking time. Watch closely to prevent burning and ensure a golden finish.

            Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes to let the juices settle. If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken drumsticks alongside the roasted onions and apples, drizzling any pan juices over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including marinating time) | Servings: 4