Apple Cider Chicken: Amazing Fall Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes Recipe

Introduction

This Apple Cider Chicken recipe is a perfect way to celebrate fall flavors with a simple, sweet, and tangy glaze. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delicious weeknight dinner that feels cozy and special.

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 your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, then arrange them evenly 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 over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken 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 glaze on the stove for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken.
• Substitute chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, just adjust baking time accordingly.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle spicy kick.
• Fresh thyme can be replaced with dried thyme; use about one-third the amount.

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 to keep the chicken juicy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apple cider?

Yes, both filtered and unfiltered apple cider work well, but avoid hard cider as it may alter the sweetness and flavor balance.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The chicken holds up well for a few days in the fridge and pairs nicely with sides like roasted veggies or rice for easy meals.

Apple Cider Chicken: Amazing Fall Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 103 reviews

This Apple Cider Chicken recipe is a perfect fall-inspired dish featuring juicy boneless, skinless chicken thighs baked in a flavorful glaze made from apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet delicious meal that combines sweet and savory flavors ideal for cozy autumn dinners.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• 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 the chicken from sticking during baking.
2. Season Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs evenly with salt and pepper and 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 well combined to create a flavorful glaze.
4. Coat Chicken: Pour the prepared glaze over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is evenly coated to infuse flavor throughout the baking process.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, then drizzle with any remaining glaze from the pan before serving.

Notes

• Use fresh thyme for the best flavor, but dried thyme can be substituted in a pinch (use 1/3 tsp dried thyme).
• If apple cider is not available, apple juice can be used as an alternative for a milder sweetness.
• Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safely cooked.
• For a thicker sauce, you can reduce the glaze in a small saucepan before pouring over the cooked chicken.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Keywords: apple cider chicken, fall recipe, baked chicken thighs, apple cider glaze, easy chicken dinner, autumn meals