Description
This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken recipe offers a sweet and savory flavor profile, perfect for a fall-inspired meal. Juicy chicken breasts or thighs are coated in a rich, glossy glaze made from apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and herbs, creating a comforting and elegant dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider (not vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Optional garnish: Thinly sliced apples or fresh herbs
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the apple cider. Whisk in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Stir until combined and sugar dissolves.
- Simmer the glaze for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a glossy glaze.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, turning to coat it well in the glaze.
- Reduce heat to low and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temperature).
- Spoon extra glaze over the top before serving. Garnish with thinly sliced apples or fresh thyme.
Notes
- Use real apple cider, not vinegar, for the best flavor.
- Simmer the glaze slowly to prevent burning and allow it to thicken naturally.
- Add a pat of butter at the end for extra richness and shine.
- Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g