Name: Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup apple cider; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, grated or minced; 1 small yellow onion, finely diced; 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 large Honeycrisp apple, sliced; 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp avocado oil

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is everything you want in a fall dinner: it’s easy, delicious, and made in one pan. The apple cider glaze is the star, striking a perfect balance between sweetness from the cider and brown sugar, and savoriness from garlic, Dijon, and herbs. The use of Honeycrisp apples adds natural sweetness and texture. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season without spending hours in the kitchen.

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup apple cider
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, grated or minced
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 large Honeycrisp apple, sliced
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp avocado oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Season both sides of the chicken thighs evenly.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent.
Add apple cider, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, garlic, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir and simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes.
Add the sliced Honeycrisp apple into the glaze. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the apples. Spoon some glaze over each thigh.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the oven, baste the chicken with the pan glaze, and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon extra glaze over the chicken for added flavor.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use chicken breasts: Adjust the cooking time by 5–7 minutes less, as breasts cook faster than thighs.
Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the glaze for heat.
Maple flavor: Replace part of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer fall flavor.
Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with thick-cut roasted cauliflower steaks or tofu and follow the same glaze steps.
Different apples: Use Granny Smith for a tarter contrast or Fuji for a sweeter bite.

Storage/Reheating

Let the chicken cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or leftover glaze to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes, covered.

FAQs

What kind of apple cider should I use?

Use regular apple cider, not apple cider vinegar. Look for unfiltered, fresh apple cider for the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze and sear the chicken in advance. Store them separately and finish baking when ready to serve.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Boneless thighs will cook slightly faster, so reduce oven time by about 5 minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring your Worcestershire sauce is labeled gluten-free.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What side dishes go well with this?

Mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or wild rice pair wonderfully with the sweet and savory glaze.

Can I thicken the glaze?

For a thicker glaze, add a slurry of 2–3 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with a little cold water during simmering.

What’s the best skillet to use?

A heavy-bottomed, oven-safe skillet like cast iron is ideal for even searing and baking.

Can I use another type of apple?

Yes, other firm apples like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith can be used depending on your sweetness preference.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a heartwarming dish that brings the cozy essence of fall right to your dinner table. With tender chicken, sweet apples, and a glaze packed with comforting flavors, this one-pan meal is sure to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re entertaining or simply craving something delicious and satisfying, this recipe delivers every time.