FALL DINNER

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Pan-seared tender chicken coated in a glossy sauce with a warm sweet-savory flavor made with apple cider, Dijon, brown sugar, garlic, and thyme.

Jump to Recipe
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings4
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs can replace breasts; keep the pieces similar in thickness and cook the thickest part to 165°F.

Olive oil or dairy-free butter can replace the finishing butter, though the glaze will be slightly less rich.

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken

Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Step 2: Sear

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden, then remove from the pan.

Sear for Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Step 3: Make the glaze

Add apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, garlic, and vinegar to the skillet. Stir and simmer for a few minutes.

Step 4: Finish cooking

Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until the thickest piece reaches 165°F and the sauce reduces to a glossy glaze.

Finish cooking for Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Step 5: Add butter

Stir in butter at the end for a silky glaze, then spoon sauce over the chicken and serve.

Add butter for Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
Finished Apple Cider Glazed Chicken ready to serve

Getting the Glaze Right

The chicken and glaze do not always finish at the same moment. If the chicken reaches 165°F while the sauce is still loose, take the chicken out and reduce the cider mixture separately so the meat does not overcook.

Stir the butter in only after the glaze has reduced. That final addition smooths the sauce and softens the sharp edges of the mustard and vinegar.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate the cooked portion of Apple Cider Glazed Chicken within 2 hours in a sealed container and use it within 3 to 4 days.

How to Reheat

Reheat the chicken in a covered skillet over low heat with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water or apple cider. Turn the pieces once and spoon the loosened glaze over them as they warm so the sauce does not scorch.

Heat leftovers until the center is hot throughout. If the glaze becomes too thin, move the chicken to a plate for a minute and simmer the sauce briefly before returning the chicken.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 310
Protein 34g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fat 13g
Sugar 11g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my apple-cider glaze still thin?

The cider needs time to reduce after it is combined with Dijon, brown sugar, garlic, and vinegar. If the chicken reaches 165°F before the glaze is glossy, transfer the chicken to a plate and simmer the sauce by itself for another minute or two.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes. Boneless thighs work well with the sweet-tangy glaze. Keep the pieces similar in thickness and cook the thickest part to 165°F before serving.

About the Author

FreshFork Recipes Team edits each recipe page for clear measurements, consistent instructions, and practical cooking guidance.

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