There is something undeniably comforting and utterly delicious about Apple Cider Glazed Chicken. This dish perfectly balances the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider with savory, rich spices and herbs, creating a glaze that hugs every tender bite of chicken thighs. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner for your family or impressing guests at a cozy gathering, the Apple Cider Glazed Chicken brings warm flavors and a beautiful, caramelized finish that feels both rustic and refined. Once you try this recipe, it quickly becomes one of those go-to meals that you crave time and again.

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may look straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting that unforgettable Apple Cider Glazed Chicken. From the rich sweetness of the Honeycrisp apple to the fragrant touch of rosemary and thyme, every element adds flavor, aroma, and texture to the final dish.

Apple Cider: The star of the glaze offering a natural sweetness and subtle acidity that lifts the whole dish.
Soy Sauce: Adds a umami depth and a touch of saltiness to balance the sweet glaze.
Worcestershire Sauce: Brings complexity with its tangy, slightly savory notes.
Brown Sugar: Essential for that caramelized, sticky glaze that clings to the chicken.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives a punch of aromatic savoriness.
Yellow Onion: Finely diced to melt into the glaze providing subtle sweetness and body.
Fresh Rosemary: Woody, fragrant herb enhancing the rustic flavor profile.
Fresh Thyme: Adds a delicate earthiness that pairs perfectly with the apple cider.
Dijon Mustard: Gives a slight tang and richness to the sauce.
Fresh Ginger: Grated to bring warmth and a hint of zest.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch for subtle spice and complexity.
Honeycrisp Apple: Thinly sliced for texture and bursts of fruity sweetness within the glaze.
Chicken Thighs (skin-on): Juicy, tender meat ideal for absorbing the glaze while crisping up beautifully.
Salt: Essential to season and highlight flavors.
Ground Black Pepper: Adds mild heat and aromatic spice.
Garlic Powder: Boosts the garlic flavor throughout.
Onion Powder: Adds an extra layer of savory depth.
Smoked Paprika: Offers a smoky sweetness and rich color to the seasoning.
Avocado Oil: The ideal high-heat oil used for searing chicken to golden perfection.

How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by making a flavorful dry rub with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This simple combination ensures the chicken thighs are well-seasoned and full of savory notes right under that luscious glaze. Pat the seasoning evenly on both sides of each thigh, setting the stage for a beautifully seasoned dish.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the avocado oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin side down and let them sear for about 4 minutes on each side until the skin turns a gorgeous golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds that irresistible crispy texture. Remove the chicken and set it aside for later.

Step 3: Make the Apple Cider Glaze

Using the same skillet, sauté the finely diced onion until translucent. This base offers a mellow sweetness that complements the glaze. Then add the apple cider, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes. This reduction intensifies the flavors and thickens the glaze to the perfect consistency.

Step 4: Add Apples and Bake

Next, nestle the sliced Honeycrisp apple into the skillet—it adds a lovely fresh crunch and a burst of juicy sweetness. Arrange the seared chicken thighs on top and spoon some of the glaze over them. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The oven finish allows the glaze to caramelize and the flavors to meld into every bite.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and baste the chicken with the extra glaze in the pan. Let it rest for a few minutes to lock in all those beautiful juices. This resting step is key to juicy, flavorful chicken that melts in your mouth.

How to Serve Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or extra rosemary over the chicken for a vibrant green pop and an herbal touch that enhances the rustic vibe. You can also add a few thin apple slices on top for an eye-catching presentation that hints at the delicious flavors inside.

Side Dishes

Pair this Apple Cider Glazed Chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta to soak up the luscious glaze. A side of roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness and adds texture to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the dish family-style on a large platter surrounded by fresh thyme sprigs and apple wedges for a cozy, inviting look. For a more modern twist, plate each chicken thigh individually with a drizzle of glaze artistically placed alongside microgreens or edible flowers to elevate the visual experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Cider Glazed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, maintaining its juicy flavor and glaze integrity. Be sure to separate the chicken from any excess glaze to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken stays best if used within 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid high heat to keep the chicken tender and preserve the delicate sweetness of the glaze. Adding a splash of water or extra glaze while reheating helps keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can work, but keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out more easily. Reduce baking time and keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure juiciness.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme?

Dry herbs can be substituted, though in smaller quantities since they are more concentrated. The fresh herbs truly elevate the dish, so if possible, try to include them for the best flavor.

Is apple cider vinegar the same as apple cider in this recipe?

No, apple cider vinegar is much more acidic and would drastically change the flavor. Use real apple cider (unfiltered apple juice) to get that sweet and fruity base for the glaze.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, reheat it gently and combine with the chicken as instructed. This saves you time and deepens the flavors.

What wine pairs well with Apple Cider Glazed Chicken?

A lightly oaked Chardonnay or a crisp Riesling complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully, offering a nice balance without overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is one of those recipes that’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests. Its warm, vibrant flavors and comforting texture invite you to savor every bite. I hope you have just as much fun making and sharing this dish with your loved ones as I do. Give it a try—you might find it quickly becoming a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 13 reviews

Author: Isabella
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a sweet and savory apple cider glaze infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Perfectly seared and baked, the dish features the warmth of fresh rosemary and thyme, balanced by a touch of Dijon mustard, ginger, and nutmeg, making it an ideal comforting meal for any season.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh to enhance flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin side down and sear them for about 4 minutes on each side until they become golden brown. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Apple Cider Glaze: In the same skillet, sauté the finely diced onion until translucent and fragrant. Add apple cider, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, grated ginger, fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, and nutmeg. Stir well and simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and flavors meld.
Add Apples and Chicken: Place the sliced Honeycrisp apple into the skillet and nestle the seared chicken thighs on top. Spoon some of the glaze over the chicken to coat well.
Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven, baste the chicken again with the glaze for extra flavor, and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve with extra spoonfuls of the delicious apple cider glaze.

Notes

Use skin-on chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful dish due to the rendered fat.
Apple cider is not the same as apple cider vinegar; be sure to use sweet apple cider for the glaze.
If you do not have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the glaze and chicken to a baking dish before placing in the oven.
For a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce a bit longer before adding the chicken.
The recipe pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sear and Bake
Cuisine: American