Oktoberfest Chicken with Red Cabbage

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Oktoberfest Chicken with Red Cabbage.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   In a large, oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan, sizzle the bacon over medium-high heat, turning it occasionally until it reaches a delightful golden brown, which should take about 10 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Once perfectly crisp, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, crumbling it into pieces once it’s ready, while leaving the flavorful drippings in the skillet.

4. Step 4

   In a separate medium bowl, combine flour, kosher salt, and smoked paprika, whisking them together to create a fragrant seasoning blend.

5. Step 5

   Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly in this mixture, ensuring every inch is covered.

6. Step 6

   Return to the skillet and cook the seasoned chicken thighs in the reserved bacon drippings over medium heat, allowing them to brown beautifully for about 5 minutes on each side.

7. Step 7

   Once they are golden, set the chicken aside on a plate.

8. Step 8

   Carefully drain excess grease from the skillet, leaving about a tablespoon behind.

9. Step 9

   Add sliced onion and apple to the skillet, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and the apple softens, which should take around 5 minutes.

10. Step 10

    Stir in the sliced red cabbage and crumbled bacon, seasoning with a pinch of kosher salt.

11. Step 11

    Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the cabbage wilts and softens, approximately 5 to 8 minutes.

12. Step 12

    Pour in the red wine vinegar and dry red wine, then mix in the brown sugar and optional cinnamon until everything is harmoniously combined.

13. Step 13

    Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to reduce by half while stirring often, which will take about 10 minutes.

14. Step 14

    Nestle the browned chicken thighs atop the cabbage mixture in the skillet, creating a beautiful arrangement.

15. Step 15

    Finally, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake until the cabbage is tender and the chicken is cooked through, roughly 40 minutes.

16. Step 16

    For perfect doneness, an instant-read meat thermometer should register at least 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of a thigh.

17. Step 17

    Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting aromas that fill your kitchen as this dish comes together!.