Rustic Cider-Braised Chicken with Honey and Mustard
Indulge in this exquisite 18th-century inspired dish originating from the lush cider-producing region of Somerset, England. Traditionally known for its potent 'scrumpy' cider, Somerset offers a cooking experience where cider becomes an exceptional substitute for wine, tenderizing the meat to perfection. In this recipe, chicken is lovingly braised with the sweetness of honey and the bite of English mustard, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The honey enhances the cider’s natural sugars, while the mustard imparts a subtle warmth, crafting a gourmet dining experience that’s both rustic and sophisticated. Pair this delightful ensemble with vibrant steamed greens and a side of creamy mashed or golden-brown baked potatoes for a complete meal that brings a taste of the English countryside to your kitchen.
4
Servings
400
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken legs-thighs (chicken joints)
4
English mustard powder
2 (teaspoons)
salt
0.5 (teaspoon)
black pepper
to taste
cider
0.25 (pint)
oil
1 (tablespoon)
honey
2 (tablespoons)
Instructions
1
Place chicken pieces in a single layer in a shallow dish.
2
In a separate bowl, mix together the mustard powder, salt, black pepper, cider, oil, and honey until well combined.
3
Pour the cider mixture over the chicken, ensuring the pieces are evenly coated. Cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
4
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
5
Transfer the marinated chicken and all the marinade juices to a large ovenproof dish or roasting pan.
6
Bake the chicken uncovered for approximately 1 hour, basting the pieces with the juices every 15 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful.
7
Check if the chicken is done by ensuring the juices run clear and the meat is tender.
8
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
9
Serve the chicken hot, accompanied by steamed greens and a choice of mashed or baked potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information
23.75
Fat
16.25
Carbs
30
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rustic Cider-Braised Chicken?
It is an 18th-century inspired dish from Somerset, England, featuring chicken braised in a mixture of cider, honey, and English mustard.
Where does this recipe originate?
This dish originates from the lush cider-producing region of Somerset, England.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the calorie count for this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 30 grams of protein per serving.
What are the fat and carbohydrate contents?
The dish contains 23.75 grams of fat and 16.25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What type of chicken cuts should be used?
The recipe calls for 4 chicken legs or thighs, also known as chicken joints.
What is the recommended marinating time?
The chicken should marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 180 degrees Celsius or 356 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does the chicken need to bake?
The chicken should be baked uncovered for approximately 1 hour.
How often should I baste the chicken?
You should baste the chicken pieces with the juices every 15 minutes during the baking process.
How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is done when the juices run clear and the meat is tender.
What role does cider play in this recipe?
Cider acts as an exceptional substitute for wine, helping to tenderize the meat to perfection.
What is 'scrumpy' cider?
Scrumpy is a potent, traditional cider from the Somerset region used in rustic English cooking.
What kind of mustard is required?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of English mustard powder.
What does honey add to the flavor profile?
Honey enhances the cider's natural sugars and creates a harmonious balance with the bite of the mustard.
What sides are recommended with this meal?
It is best served with vibrant steamed greens and a choice of creamy mashed or golden-brown baked potatoes.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food and a rustic meal suitable for an entree.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
The recipe consists of 7 main ingredients including chicken, mustard powder, salt, pepper, cider, oil, and honey.
Should the dish be covered while baking?
No, the recipe instructions specify baking the chicken uncovered.
How should the chicken be arranged for marinating?
Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a shallow dish for even coating.
Can I use chicken breast for this recipe?
While the recipe specifies legs and thighs (joints), you could adapt it, though joints are traditional for braising.
Is this a complex recipe to make?
No, it is tagged as easy baking and involves simple steps like mixing, marinating, and roasting.
What kind of oil should be used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of oil to be mixed into the marinade.
How much cider is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 0.25 pint of cider.
Should I let the chicken rest after cooking?
Yes, you should let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
What makes the dish 'rustic'?
Its use of local Somerset cider and simple, traditional 18th-century cooking methods give it a rustic character.
Is the English mustard very spicy?
English mustard imparts a subtle warmth and a sharp bite, which is balanced by the honey.
Can this recipe be considered gourmet?
Yes, it creates a gourmet dining experience that is described as both rustic and sophisticated.
What is the primary cooking method used?
The chicken is braised in the oven using the marinade juices.