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Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken - featured image

This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a cozy, fall-inspired dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups apple cider (not apple juice, fresh or unfiltered preferred)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh, chopped; sage also works)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 small apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Gala recommended)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with kosher salt and black pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup or honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When butter is melted and foaming, add chicken breasts. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving.
  4. Flip chicken with tongs and cook another 3-4 minutes on the second side. If using thighs, add 1-2 more minutes per side.
  5. Pour the apple cider glaze mixture into the skillet with the chicken. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, turning chicken occasionally, until the glaze thickens and chicken is cooked through, about 12-15 minutes. The sauce should reduce by half and become glossy.
  6. Check for doneness: chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or juices run clear.
  7. Remove chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. If glaze is too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of water or chicken broth.
  8. Arrange chicken on a platter, spoon glaze over the top, and garnish with thinly sliced apples and chopped parsley.

Notes

For dairy-free, use more olive oil or plant-based butter instead of butter. Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts; adjust cooking time as needed. Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for best flavor. If glaze thickens too quickly, add a splash of cider or water. Leftover glaze is great on veggies or sandwiches. For a richer sauce, stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream at the end. This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Nutrition

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