Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Apple Cider Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy glaze. The apple cider and honey create a flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the savory garlic and thyme. It’s an easy, comforting meal ideal for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup apple cider
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Step 2: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and chopped thyme to make the glaze.
4. Step 4: Pour the glaze evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Step 5: Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with any remaining sauce before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a thicker sauce, simmer the remaining glaze on the stove for a few minutes before drizzling over the chicken.
• Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat, though thighs will stay juicier.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use fresh thyme for the best flavor, but dried thyme can be substituted if needed.

Storage

Store leftover Apple Cider Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The sauce may thicken when chilled; stir in a little water or apple cider to loosen it if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, apple juice can be used as a substitute, but apple cider has a more robust flavor that enhances the dish better.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for safety and juiciness.

Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 643 reviews

Delicious and tender apple cider chicken thighs baked to perfection with a sweet and tangy glaze made from apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme. This easy oven-baked recipe brings a perfect balance of flavors ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 25-30 mins
• Total Time: 35-40 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Glaze

• 1 cup apple cider
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Season Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs evenly with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
3. Make Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and chopped fresh thyme until smooth and well combined to create the flavorful glaze.
4. Coat Chicken: Pour the glaze over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated with the mixture.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle the remaining sauce from the baking dish over the chicken before serving for added flavor.

Notes

• For extra caramelization, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
• You can substitute fresh thyme with 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme if fresh is unavailable.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Ensure chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature to avoid undercooking.

Keywords: apple cider chicken, baked chicken thighs, honey mustard chicken, easy chicken dinner, fall recipes