Apple Cider Glazed Chicken: 30-Minute Fall Recipe

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken brings together the rich flavors of tender, seared chicken thighs and a sweet, savory homemade apple cider glaze. The result is an irresistible dish that makes for a perfect fall meal, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This easy-to-make recipe, prepared in just one pan, will have your family and friends asking for more. Plus, with a sweet and tangy apple cider sauce, it’s a unique take on chicken that’ll become a household favorite!

Why Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a Must-Try

This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken recipe stands out for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The crispy, golden-brown seared chicken thighs, combined with the apple cider glaze, make for a succulent meal. The glaze, infused with apple cider, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and a mix of spices, delivers a mouthwatering depth of flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Additionally, the recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to substitute different cuts of chicken or even adjust the sweetness of the glaze according to your preferences. This dish is ideal for a fall dinner, offering both a cozy, festive feel and a simple cooking process.

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Apple Cider: The base of the glaze, providing natural sweetness and the essence of fall.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a savory depth to the glaze.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the tangy, umami notes.
• Brown Sugar: Deepens the sweetness and balances the tartness of the apple cider.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a savory, caramelized flavor when sautéed.
• Garlic: Grated garlic gives the sauce a punch of flavor.
• Fresh Rosemary and Thyme: These herbs elevate the dish with their aromatic notes.
• Dijon Mustard: For a slight tangy zip that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
• Fresh Ginger: Adds a warm, spicy kick to the glaze.
• Nutmeg: Complements the apple cider with its warm, comforting spice.
• Honeycrisp Apple: Sliced for added sweetness and texture in the glaze.

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Thighs: Skin-on chicken thighs work best, delivering crispness and flavor.
• Seasonings: Salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
• Avocado Oil: Ideal for searing due to its high smoke point.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing any ingredients, here are some substitutions:

• Apple Cider: If you can’t find apple cider, you can substitute it with apple juice, though it will be less complex in flavor.
• Chicken: While this recipe uses chicken thighs, you can opt for chicken breasts or even chicken wings for a different twist.
• Apple: Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their sweet-tart balance, but you can also use Gala or Fuji apples for a slightly different flavor.
• Spices: If you’re out of fresh rosemary or thyme, dried versions will work fine, though you might want to reduce the quantity by half.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the chicken.
2. Season and Sear the Chicken:
   In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with this mixture. Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 4 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Apple Cider Glaze:
   In the same skillet, sauté the diced yellow onion until translucent. Add apple cider, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, garlic, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Apples and Bake:
   Add the sliced Honeycrisp apples to the skillet, followed by the seared chicken thighs. Baste the chicken with the apple cider glaze and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
   Once the chicken is done, remove from the oven. Baste the chicken once more with the glaze. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with extra glaze from the skillet.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

• Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor, opt for bone-in chicken thighs. The bone helps to lock in moisture, while the skin crisps up beautifully during searing.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure that the chicken sears properly. If needed, sear in batches.
• Use a Heavy Skillet: A heavy skillet, like cast iron, is perfect for this recipe as it retains heat well and provides even cooking.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken pairs wonderfully with hearty sides. Consider serving it with roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, or sautéed green beans for a complete fall meal. You can also top the chicken with some chopped walnuts or fresh herbs for added texture and flavor.

Variations: Feel free to customize this dish by adding other seasonal ingredients like roasted butternut squash or a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra zing. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Cider Glazed Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, either microwave or heat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is the ultimate fall-inspired dish that combines savory chicken with a sweet and tangy glaze. This easy-to-make, one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike. With its tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a homemade apple cider glaze, it’s a comforting meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. The balance of flavors, combined with its simplicity, makes this dish a true winner for any occasion. Don’t wait for a special occasion—make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken tonight and enjoy the delightful taste of fall!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken: This dish offers a rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken, similar to the savory elements found in the Apple Cider Glazed Chicken. The balance of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach makes it a perfect match for those who enjoy hearty, flavorful chicken dishes.
• Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast: A simple yet delicious recipe that focuses on the buttery richness of chicken breasts, similar to the flavor profile of Apple Cider Glazed Chicken. The garlic butter sauce gives it an aromatic, savory flavor that complements the juicy chicken.
• Honey Garlic Chicken: This sweet and savory chicken dish brings together honey, garlic, and soy sauce for a glaze that’s somewhat reminiscent of the apple cider glaze. If you’re a fan of glazed chicken with a touch of sweetness, this recipe will offer a similar balance of flavors.

Print