This Apple Cider Chicken is a tasty dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners. The chicken gets juicy and flavorful as it cooks in sweet apple cider, with a hint of herbs for extra joy!
It’s like autumn on a plate! I love how the sweet and savory mix makes my kitchen smell amazing. Serve it with some rice or veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels special! 🍏🥘
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try chicken thighs for a juicier result. You can also use bone-in chicken; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Apple Cider: The cider adds a sweet and tangy flavor. If apple cider isn’t available, use apple juice mixed with a bit of vinegar for a similar taste. For a non-alcoholic option, consider using kombucha instead!
Apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are great choices as they hold their shape well. Any tart apple like Granny Smith can work too. You might even try pears for a fun twist!
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives an aromatic flavor, but dried thyme works if that’s what you have. Just use one-third of the amount since dried herbs are stronger!
How Do You Cook Chicken Breast Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken breast can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep it juicy:
- Start with medium-high heat to brown the outside quickly without overcooking the inside.
- Always season your chicken. Salt helps draw moisture into the meat.
- Set a timer to avoid checking too often. Overcooking past 165°F dries out the meat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices.
Follow these tips, and your chicken will turn out tender and flavorful each time!
Delicious Apple Cider Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 apples, cored and cut into wedges (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Apple Cider Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will give your chicken a tasty flavor from the very beginning!
2. Brown the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once they are done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them until they become softened, which should take about 4 minutes. This step brings great flavor to the dish!
4. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until you can smell that lovely garlic scent. It adds a nice depth of flavor.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard, stirring everything together to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic begins!
6. Add Apples and Thyme:
Add your thyme leaves and the apple wedges to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to reduce slightly and the apples to soften, making them deliciously tender.
7. Return the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken breasts back in the skillet. Spoon some of that lovely sauce over the chicken and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through. This allows the chicken to absorb that fantastic apple cider flavor.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, ideally alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe! They tend to be juicier and won’t dry out as easily as breasts. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through.
How Do I Substitute Apple Cider?
If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice with a splash of vinegar for acidity. Alternatively, a mix of white grape juice and a bit of lemon juice can also create a similar flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or stock to keep it moist!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add seasonal veggies like carrots, celery, or even Brussels sprouts. Just chop them into similar sizes and add them along with the onions to ensure they cook evenly.