Delicious apple cider glazed chicken on a plate garnished with herbs.

Why Make This Recipe

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a wonderful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a way that is simple yet delicious. This recipe uses fresh apple cider, which adds a delightful sweetness to the chicken, making it a perfect choice for any time of year. It works well for family dinners, special occasions, or even just a quick weekday meal. With ingredients that are easy to find and a straightforward cooking method, this dish is perfect for beginner cooks. Plus, the glaze gives the chicken a lovely, shiny appearance that makes it look impressive on your table.

How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Follow these simple steps to make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken. Cooking is fun and rewarding, especially when you see how delicious your meal turns out!

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh apple cider
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the apple cider, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and thyme. This mixture will be your marinade and the base for the delicious glaze.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade. Make sure the chicken is coated well. Let it marinate for at least one hour. If you can, marinate it longer in the fridge for even better flavor.
Heat the Skillet: When you're ready to cook, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sear the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken out of the bowl, letting any excess marinade drip off. Place the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook it for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown.
Make the Glaze: Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it reduce for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Coat the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the thickened glaze. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it is fully cooked.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for three minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.

How to Serve Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is versatile in how you can serve it. You can slice the chicken and place it over a bed of rice or serve it alongside mashed potatoes. Adding a simple green salad or steamed vegetables complements the dish nicely. Drizzling extra glaze over the chicken just before serving can add even more flavor and presentation.

How to Store Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

If you have leftovers, you can store them easily. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.

Tips to Make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Marinating Time: If you're short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating can add flavor. However, the longer you can marinate, the better the taste.
Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked through. This guarantees it is safe to eat.
Customize the Glaze: If you like spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe to suit your taste. Try substituting apple cider with orange juice for a different flavor profile. You can also add vegetables like sliced onions or bell peppers to the skillet while cooking the chicken for more nutrition and taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so that it cooks fully.

2. What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad pairs well with Apple Cider Glazed Chicken.

3. Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works great, but for the best flavor, look for fresh cider if you can find it.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a flavorful and easy dish that anyone can make. With sweet apple cider and warm spices, it's sure to be a hit at your table. Remember, following the steps carefully ensures your chicken turns out perfectly every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!