Description
This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken recipe offers a sweet and savory fall-inspired dish. Juicy chicken breasts are seared and coated in a rich glaze made from apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider (not vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Optional Garnish: Thinly sliced apples or fresh herbs
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring, until fragrant.
- Pour in the apple cider. Whisk in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Stir until combined and sugar is dissolved.
- Simmer the glaze gently for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes glossy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, turning to coat it in the glaze.
- Reduce heat to low and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Spoon extra glaze over the chicken before serving. Garnish with apple slices or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use real apple cider, not vinegar, for the best flavor.
- Simmer the glaze slowly to prevent burning and allow it to thicken naturally.
- Add a pat of butter at the end for extra richness and shine.
- Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g