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.

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a cozy dinner recipe with tender chicken and a glossy sweet-savory sauce.

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

  • For Apple Cider Glazed Chicken, chicken breasts and thighs can be exchanged when cut to similar thickness; cook the thickest part to 165°F.
  • Use olive oil or dairy-free butter in place of butter for finishing the glaze.

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

How to Store Leftovers

Cool Apple Cider Glazed Chicken promptly, cover it, and refrigerate within 2 hours. Use leftovers within 3 to 4 days and store fresh or crisp components separately.

How to Reheat

Reheat Apple Cider Glazed Chicken in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of its sauce or water only when needed and stop once hot.

What to Serve With It

  • Rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables
  • A green salad
  • Crusty bread for the sauce

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • For Apple Cider Glazed Chicken, crowding the pan and steaming the ingredients.
  • For Apple Cider Glazed Chicken, adding sugar, garlic, or dairy over excessive heat.

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

How do I know the poultry in Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is done?

Check the thickest piece for 165°F and use the recipe’s visual cue: Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until the thickest piece reaches 165°F and the sauce reduces to a glossy glaze.

About the Author

Written and edited by the FreshFork Recipes Team.

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