Juicy Braised Chicken Thighs with Onion & Fennel
These braised chicken thighs with sweet onions and fennel are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. A splash of sherry vinegar and a touch of cream create a silky sauce, finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley for brightness. An elegant weeknight dinner with minimal effort. Naturally gluten-free.
Servings: 8
Calories: 299kcal
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1½ lb chicken thighs, boneless, skinless
- 2 large fennel, fronds removed, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (you can reserve the fronds for garnish, if you like)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium shallots, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tsp Kosher salt, divided
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken stock
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 Tbsp sherry vinegar
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 Tbsp oregano, or thyme, finely chopped
- Parsley or chives, for serving
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Brown the chicken: Season thighs with 1 tsp kosher salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. Heat 3 Tbsp olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook half the thighs 4 minutes per side, until they release easily (skin-side down if using skin-on). Transfer to a plate and repeat.
- Cook the vegetables: Add fennel, onion, and shallot to the skillet. Season with remaining salt and pepper. Stir in garlic, 2 Tbsp oregano (or thyme), and lemon zest. Cook 6–8 minutes, until softened. Add ½ cup chicken stock, ¼ cup heavy cream, and 2 Tbsp sherry vinegar; bring to a boil.
- Braise: Return chicken to the pan, turning to coat. Cover and simmer until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C, about 6–9 minutes.
- Finish: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and garnish with parsley or chives and flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Calories: 299kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 687mg | Potassium: 518mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 280IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 2mg
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