Hairy Bikers Chicken Cider Casserole

Name: Hairy Bikers' Chicken Cider Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1.5 kg chicken thighs, skin on and bone in; 2 tbsp olive oil; 200 g smoked bacon lardons; 2 large onions, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, crushed; 2 carrots, sliced; 300 ml dry cider; 300 ml chicken stock; 2 tbsp plain flour; 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Dive into the heartwarming comforts of a classic with the Hairy Bikers' Chicken Cider Casserole, a dish that encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness. This recipe, a treasure from the culinary duo known for their down-to-earth cooking style, combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the robust flavors of cider, creating a casserole that's both comforting and sophisticated.

The Essence of the Chicken Cider Casserole

This casserole is a testament to the Hairy Bikers' ability to transform simple ingredients into a meal that's rich in flavor and texture. At its core, the dish marries chicken thighs with the earthy sweetness of cider, enveloped in a creamy sauce that's delicately balanced with mustard and herbs.

Cultural and Historical Context

The Chicken Cider Casserole by the Hairy Bikers finds its roots in traditional British cooking, where cider has been a staple ingredient, lending its unique flavor to various dishes. This recipe exemplifies how British cuisine often incorporates local produce and alcohol to elevate comfort foods into something truly special.

Ingredients for the Chicken Cider Casserole

Chicken Thighs: 1280g, halved, for their richness and tenderness.
Smoked Bacon Lardons: 250g, adding a smoky depth.
Leeks: 500g, trimmed and thickly sliced, for a subtle oniony sweetness.
Garlic Cloves: 3, sliced, for aromatic undertones.
Plain Flour: 3 tbsp, to thicken the sauce.
Dry Cider: 500ml, imparting a tangy sweetness.
Chicken Stock: 500ml, for the base of the sauce.
Baby New Potatoes: 500g, halved, for heartiness.
Frozen Peas: 150g, adding freshness.
Crème Fraîche: 75g, for creaminess.
Wholegrain Mustard: 2 tbsp, for a tangy kick.
Tarragon: ½ x 20g pack, leaves chopped, for a hint of aniseed flavor.

Preparation Instructions

Begin by heating olive oil in a large casserole and browning the chicken thighs. Then, add the smoked bacon lardons until golden and crispy.
Sauté the leeks and garlic until softened, stir in the flour, then gradually mix in the cider and chicken stock to create a rich sauce.
Introduce the chicken, bacon, and baby new potatoes to the casserole, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken.
Finish by stirring in the frozen peas, crème fraîche, wholegrain mustard, and tarragon before serving with a flourish of fresh tarragon and black pepper.

Storage and Reheating

Cool the casserole before refrigerating or freezing. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven until piping hot throughout.

Nutritional Information

Per serving, the casserole offers a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, with an emphasis on the rich flavors and hearty textures that make British cuisine so beloved.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Chicken Cider Casserole

Can I substitute the cider? Yes, apple juice or a non-alcoholic cider can be used as alternatives.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? While the essence of this dish lies in its meat components, a vegetarian version could substitute chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein.

Enjoy this delightful Chicken Cider Casserole, a recipe that brings the warmth of the Hairy Bikers' kitchen into your home. Perfect for a cozy night in or a lavish dinner with friends, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction in every bite.

For a detailed dive into the ingredients and preparation steps, check out Delicious Magazine and Sainsbury's Magazine for inspiration.