This Cozy Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a warm dish that fills your kitchen with sweet and spicy aromas. Juicy chicken meets a tasty apple cider glaze, making it a perfect fall favorite!
I love how the glaze caramelizes while baking, giving the chicken a mouthwatering shine. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! Serve it with some mashed potatoes for a meal that feels like home. 🍏🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture. You can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer, but keep an eye on cooking time, as they can dry out faster.
Apple Cider: This is the star of the dish! If you don’t have apple cider, apple juice works in a pinch. It’s a bit sweeter, so you may want to reduce the honey.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add sweetness to the glaze. Maple syrup gives a deeper flavor, while honey is more traditional. Feel free to swap based on what you have at home.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme are great choices here. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs will work, but use less since dried herbs are more potent.
Vegetables: I like the mix of apples and red onions for sweetness and depth. You can replace apples with pears or add carrots for a change. Any quick-cooking green veggies also work well as a side.
How Do I Get the Perfect Glaze on the Chicken?
The glaze gives the chicken its amazing flavor and shine. To achieve the perfect consistency, it’s important to simmer the glaze until it thickens. Here’s how:
- After sautéing the aromatics, bring the glaze to a simmer. Watch it closely!
- Simmer for about 5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready, not runny.
- Once it’s thick, return the chicken to the skillet and coat it generously. Spoon extra glaze on top later for extra flavor.
Remember, reducing the glaze intensifies the flavors, making each bite delicious!
Cozy Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus sprigs for garnish)
For the Roasting:
- 1 large apple, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- Optional: cooked green vegetables (such as broccolini or Brussels sprouts) for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes for a delicious dinner that warms the heart!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to roast the chicken!
2. Season the Chicken:
Generously season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step helps to enhance their natural flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for a moment.
4. Make the Glaze:
In the same skillet, add the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Stir it all together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce the Glaze:
Allow the glaze to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This is where all the flavors meld together beautifully!
6. Add the Chicken Back:
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the glaze over each piece to keep them flavorful as they cook.
7. Add the Fruits and Veggies:
Now, toss the apple chunks and sliced red onion around the chicken in the skillet. They’ll soak up that yummy glaze while they roast!
8. Roast in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, and the apples are tender. You can check the chicken’s internal temperature to make sure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
9. Optional Sides:
If you’re adding green vegetables, like broccolini or Brussels sprouts, throw them into the skillet for the last few minutes to warm them through. They add a lovely color and freshness!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish your cozy dish with fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme, and spoon any remaining glaze over the chicken and apples. It’s time to dig in!
11. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the Cozy Apple Cider Glazed Chicken hot with your favorite sides. It’s a heartwarming meal that’s sure to impress!
This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something satisfying. The wonderful aroma and flavors make it a lovely dinner choice. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely beforehand. Thawing can be done in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure it sears properly!
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider?
If you don’t have apple cider, apple juice is a good substitute, although it is sweeter. Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup in the recipe accordingly to avoid making the dish too sugary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra cider to maintain moisture when warming.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and glaze up to a day in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the glaze, then add the chicken and cook until heated through.
