Creating Apple Cider Braised Chicken Thighs is simple when you follow these clear steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Sear Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook for about 5 minutes or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add Cider: Pour in the apple cider and apple cider vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return Chicken: Place the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Sprinkle with fresh thyme.
7. Braise: Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
8. Optional Glaze: For a crispy skin, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

These steps will guide you in creating this incredible dish effortlessly.