Now, let’s dive into the steps to bring this heartwarming dish to your table:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5 minutes on each side. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onion. Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the Dijon mustard and fresh thyme leaves.
5. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the butter until melted, creating a glossy finish to the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Remember, the key to this dish is in the searing process—achieving a crispy skin that locks in the juices is essential. Don’t rush it, and enjoy the savory aroma that fills your kitchen!