Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels both cozy and a little bit fancy, this Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe is going to win your heart—and your taste buds! I absolutely love how the sweet and tangy apple cider glaze pairs with tender, juicy chicken and those tender-cooked apples. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings when you want something comforting but still bright and fresh.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to make such an elegant meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal apples in a savory dish that your whole family will go crazy for. Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe has become one of my go-to favorites. You’ll find it’s well worth the little bit of attention it requires.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe relies on fresh, seasonal apples and simple, versatile ingredients that really complement one another. When shopping, try to pick crisp apples like Honey Crisp or Fuji—they hold up well and bring a lively sweetness.

• Chicken (cut up, breasts, or thighs): I find bone-in thighs keep things juicy, but breasts work great if you like leaner meat.
• Dried thyme: Adds gentle earthy notes that pair beautifully with apples and cider.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Olive oil: Use a good quality one for searing the chicken to perfection.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps develop that gorgeous golden crust.
• Shallots (thinly sliced): They melt down sweetly without overpowering the sauce.
• Apples (Roma, Gala, Fuji, or Honey Crisp): Choose firm apples that soften slightly but don’t turn mushy.
• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs simmered in the sauce release wonderful aroma and flavor.
• Apple cider: The star ingredient for the glaze, bringing subtle fruitiness and sweetness.
• Chicken stock: Helps create depth and body in the sauce.
• Soy sauce: A tiny splash adds umami and enhances the savory side of the glaze.
• Dry mustard powder: Provides a mild sharpness that brightens the glaze without heat.
• Fresh thyme leaves: For final garnish to bring fresh herbaceous notes and pretty color.

Variations

I love to tweak this Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe depending on the season or what’s in my pantry. Feel free to experiment — it’s forgiving and delicious no matter what! Make it your own and you’ll enjoy every bite even more.

• Variation: Swap chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts for a lighter version; just be careful not to overcook since breasts dry out faster.
• Variation: Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to deepen the glaze’s flavor—this little twist makes it great for fall dinner parties.
• Variation: For a gluten-free option, double-check your soy sauce or substitute with tamari, which is naturally gluten-free.
• Variation: Roasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top add a lovely crunch and extra earthy notes.

How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken with dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add olive oil and butter. When the butter has melted and starts to foam, place the chicken skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear until golden brown—about 4-5 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and builds flavor with those beautiful brown bits that later enrich the sauce. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Apples

In the same pan, add thinly sliced shallots and sauté for about a minute until softened. Then toss in your sliced apples and fresh thyme sprigs. Cook these together over medium heat for a few minutes to let the apples begin softening but stay slightly firm. Watching this step closely helps keep your apples from turning mushy in the final dish—trust me, that texture contrast adds so much!

Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Glaze

Pour in the apple cider to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Bring this to a gentle simmer. Meanwhile, whisk chicken stock, soy sauce, and dry mustard powder together, then add this mixture to the skillet. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the apples and liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low and let everything simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. The sauce will thicken into a glossy glaze, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165ºF. If it looks like the liquid is evaporating too fast, add a splash more chicken stock to keep it from drying out.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and coated in the shiny glaze, carefully flip each piece to ensure maximum coverage. Remove the thyme sprigs and discard—they’ve done their job! Season the sauce with a little more salt and pepper if needed. To plate, spoon the apples over the chicken and drizzle the luscious glaze on top. I always sprinkle fresh thyme leaves for that final fragrant, fresh touch. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep the garnishes simple and fresh—some scattered fresh thyme leaves really elevate the aroma and add a pop of color. Sometimes I’ll add a few toasted sliced almonds on top for crunch. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving also brings the flavors alive in the best way.

Side Dishes

Since the chicken and apples are fairly rich and saucy, I usually pair this with simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up all that lovely glaze. Roasted green beans or a crisp autumn salad add great texture contrasts and freshness, rounding out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I’ve served the Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe on a large wooden board layered with fresh thyme sprigs and a handful of crunchy roasted nuts alongside. It makes for a rustic and inviting presentation that guests always appreciate. You can also plate it over wild rice or creamy mashed parsnips for seasonal flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The glaze actually tastes richer the next day, so if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Just make sure to keep the apples and chicken submerged in the sauce so they don’t dry out.

Freezing

While you can freeze this dish, I recommend freezing it without the apples if possible, because their texture changes after thawing. Freeze the chicken and glaze separately in airtight containers and add fresh apples when reheating to restore that fresh bite.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat so the glaze doesn’t dry out or burn. Adding a splash of chicken stock or water helps loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture of the chicken and apples intact.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken & Apples Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those meals that’s surprisingly simple yet feels like you put in a lot of love and effort—without the stress. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it brings warmth and delight to your table like it does mine. Give it a try soon, and I’d bet it’ll become one of your favorite fall and winter weeknight go-tos!

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