Why is apple cider vinegar used in the braised red cabbage?

Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy depth that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and enhances the natural flavors of the red cabbage. It's a key ingredient in German-style braised cabbage for achieving the signature sweet-and-sour taste.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?

While chicken breasts can be used, thighs are preferred because their higher fat content keeps them moist during roasting. If using breasts, monitor the cooking time closely to avoid dryness and consider adding a bit more olive oil during seasoning.

How do I know when the chicken thighs are fully cooked?

The chicken thighs are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 75°C and the juices run clear when pierced. Additionally, they should appear golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside after roasting for about 25 minutes.

Can I make the braised red cabbage ahead of time?

Yes, the braised red cabbage can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently over medium heat before serving, adding a splash of apple cider vinegar if needed to refresh the flavors.

What can I substitute for brown sugar in the braised cabbage?

You can use honey, maple syrup, or even granulated sugar as substitutes for brown sugar. However, brown sugar is ideal because it adds a rich, molasses-like flavor that complements the tanginess of the vinegar.

How can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the braised cabbage?

To reduce sweetness, use less brown sugar or omit it entirely. To increase tanginess, add more apple cider vinegar in small increments and taste as you go to achieve the desired balance.

Herbed Roast Chicken With Braised Red Cabbage Recipe

Name: Herbed Roast Chicken with Braised Red Cabbage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 4X150G Boneless Chicken Thighs 4X150G (Skin On); - Edmal Red Cabbage; 1 L Eat Wholesome Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar With Mother; 500 ml Filippo Berio Extra Virgin Olive Oil 500 ml; 1 Garlic Bulb - 1 Each; 30G Natoora Fresh Italian Rosemary; - Ducros Dried Thyme; 400G Greenfield Himalayan Salt Fine 400G; 100G Heera Black Pepper Powder 100g; NaN Tate & Lyle Dark Soft Brown Sugar; 1 Onion Large 1 Each

German cuisine · 341 calories

Herbed Roast Chicken with Braised Red Cabbage recipe

About this recipe

Herbed Roast Chicken with Braised Red Cabbage is a traditional German dinner that combines succulent chicken thighs and vibrant red cabbage. The chicken is seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, then roasted to perfection, while the cabbage is gently braised with apple cider vinegar and a hint of brown sugar for a tangy-sweet flavor. This hearty yet healthy dish is packed with 32g of protein and 6g of fiber, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Ideal for a cozy dinner, the robust flavors and textures complement each other beautifully. The preparation strikes a balance between intermediate cooking skills and straightforward techniques, ensuring it's accessible for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight meals. Serve this comforting dish on chilly evenings or as an impressive centerpiece for casual dining.

Ingredients

4X150G Boneless Chicken Thighs 4X150G (Skin On)
- Edmal Red Cabbage
1 L Eat Wholesome Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar With Mother
500 ml Filippo Berio Extra Virgin Olive Oil 500 Ml
1 Garlic Bulb - 1 Each
30G Natoora Fresh Italian Rosemary
- Ducros Dried Thyme
400G Greenfield Himalayan Salt Fine 400G
100G Heera Black Pepper Powder 100g
NaN Tate & Lyle Dark Soft Brown Sugar
1 Onion Large 1 Each

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Rub the chicken thighs with 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, 1 tsp dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the baking tray and roast for 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
4. While the chicken roasts, thinly slice the red cabbage and onion.
5. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft and translucent.
6. Add the sliced red cabbage to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and 50 ml water and sprinkle in the brown sugar, stirring well to combine.
8. Cover the pan and let the cabbage braise for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and flavourful.
9. Remove the roasted chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
10. Plate the chicken thighs alongside the braised red cabbage, garnishing with extra rosemary if desired.

How to make Herbed Roast Chicken With Braised Red Cabbage

Season the chicken. Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with parchment. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt and black pepper.
Roast the chicken. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the lined baking tray and roast for 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Start the cabbage. While the chicken roasts, thinly slice the red cabbage and onion. Sauté the onion in olive oil over medium heat until soft and translucent.
Braise the cabbage. Cook the cabbage for 5 minutes, then stir in apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. Cover and braise for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
Rest and serve. Rest the roast chicken for 5 minutes, then plate the thighs alongside the braised red cabbage, garnished with extra rosemary if desired.

Frequently asked questions

Why is apple cider vinegar used in the braised red cabbage?: Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy depth that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and enhances the natural flavors of the red cabbage. It's a key ingredient in German-style braised cabbage for achieving the signature sweet-and-sour taste.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?: While chicken breasts can be used, thighs are preferred because their higher fat content keeps them moist during roasting. If using breasts, monitor the cooking time closely to avoid dryness and consider adding a bit more olive oil during seasoning.
How do I know when the chicken thighs are fully cooked?: The chicken thighs are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 75°C and the juices run clear when pierced. Additionally, they should appear golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside after roasting for about 25 minutes.
Can I make the braised red cabbage ahead of time?: Yes, the braised red cabbage can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently over medium heat before serving, adding a splash of apple cider vinegar if needed to refresh the flavors.
What can I substitute for brown sugar in the braised cabbage?: You can use honey, maple syrup, or even granulated sugar as substitutes for brown sugar. However, brown sugar is ideal because it adds a rich, molasses-like flavor that complements the tanginess of the vinegar.
How can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the braised cabbage?: To reduce sweetness, use less brown sugar or omit it entirely. To increase tanginess, add more apple cider vinegar in small increments and taste as you go to achieve the desired balance.