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Apple Cider Chicken Recipe Easy Cozy Fall Dinner Idea

Apple Cider Chicken - featured image

A comforting fall dinner featuring tender chicken simmered in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze with caramelized apples and fresh thyme.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 2 firm, tart apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), sliced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 3 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Add the fresh thyme and cover. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  6. While the chicken is cooking, slice the apples and add them to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Let them soften but not turn mushy.
  7. If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter to the sauce for a glossy finish.
  8. Remove the thyme sprigs and serve the chicken hot with the caramelized apples and sauce spooned over the top.

Notes

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to prevent them from turning mushy. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider chicken, fall dinner, cozy recipe, chicken thighs, caramelized apples