This Apple Cider Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with the sweet and tangy flavor of apple cider. It’s an easy one-pan meal that warms you right up!
You’ll love how the sweet apples and spices make the chicken extra special. I often serve it with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all the yummy sauce. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I often use chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work too. If you’re looking for a different route, turkey cutlets or tofu can be good alternatives for a change of pace.
Apple Cider: Make sure to use real apple cider, not the vinegar! If you can’t find cider, unsweetened apple juice works in a pinch, though it may not have that strong flavor.
Mushrooms: I recommend button or cremini mushrooms for their great taste. If you prefer, you could swap in other kinds like shiitake or even omit them for a different texture.
Thyme: Fresh thyme brings a lovely aroma to this dish. If you don’t have it, dried thyme is an option, just use less (about 1 tsp) since it’s stronger.
How Do You Get Perfectly Seared Chicken?
The key to a nice sear is starting with a hot pan and not overcrowding it. Here’s what I do:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding oil.
- Don’t touch the chicken for the first few minutes—it helps form that nice crust! Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Don’t rush; the right temperature makes all the difference! If it’s cooking too fast, lower the heat a bit.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve chicken that’s not only cooked through but also beautifully caramelized, adding depth to your dish!
How to Make Apple Cider Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Sauce:
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness
For the Apples:
- 3 medium apples, cored and cut into chunks (about 3 cups)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Apple Cider Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking everything in one pan. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil or butter. Once hot, carefully add the chicken. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it turns golden brown. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 4 minutes until they start to soften. This adds a lovely earthy flavor to the dish!
4. Add the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Make sure not to burn it!
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to your sauce!
6. Mix in the Flavorings:
Stir in the Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, and honey (if you’re using it). Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
7. Return the Chicken:
Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, and nestle the apple chunks around the chicken. It’s time for everything to come together!
8. Simmer Away:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through, and the apples will become tender.
9. Thicken the Sauce:
After simmering, remove the lid and increase the heat back to medium. Let the sauce reduce and thicken slightly for about 5 minutes for that perfect coating.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot, spooning apples and mushrooms with the sauce generously over the chicken. Enjoy your cozy dinner!
This recipe results in tender chicken with a flavorful, slightly sweet cider sauce complemented by savory mushrooms and tender apples. A real treat for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight for the best results or use the quick method—submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider?
If you can’t find apple cider, unsweetened apple juice can be used as a substitute, but it may be slightly sweeter and less tangy. For a similar flavor, you can also mix apple juice with a little apple cider vinegar (about 1 cup apple juice + 1 tbsp vinegar) to mimic the taste of cider.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm gently on the stovetop to ensure the chicken stays moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the simmering stage, then cool it and refrigerate it for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce needs moisture.
