Skillet apple cider chicken is a comforting fall dinner that blends sweet and savory flavors into one irresistible dish. Juicy seared chicken breasts or thighs are simmered in a rich apple cider sauce infused with garlic, onion, mustard, and herbs. The cider reduces into a glossy glaze that coats the chicken beautifully, making every bite tender and flavorful.
This dish celebrates the best of the season—fresh apple cider gives the sauce a natural sweetness, while herbs like thyme and rosemary balance it with earthy notes. Cooked entirely in one skillet, it’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or wild rice, and you have a cozy, satisfying meal that tastes like autumn in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh apple slices (optional, for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté onion until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Sprinkle flour over onions and stir for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, thyme, and rosemary.
Step 5: Simmer and Finish
- Return chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer for 10–12 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp) and sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh apple slices or extra thyme before serving.
Variations
- Creamy Apple Cider Chicken: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra fall warmth.
- Apple Garnish: Sauté thin apple slices in butter and place over chicken for presentation.
- Maple Twist: Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the sauce for a deeper sweetness.
Cooking Notes
- Bone-in chicken thighs can also be used; adjust cooking time to ensure doneness.
- Always use apple cider (the drink) instead of apple cider vinegar as the main liquid.
- Sauce thickens as it cools—if too thick, whisk in a splash of broth.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic pairing.
- Pair with wild rice or buttered egg noodles.
- Add roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans on the side.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for color.
💡 Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing—cook chicken in batches if necessary.
- Deglaze with cider while scraping the skillet for maximum flavor.
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day after the flavors meld.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 4 servings)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 420mg
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken?
- Yes, just increase the cooking time to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
- Yes. Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Q3: Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
- You can, but cider has a deeper flavor. If using juice, reduce the added sugar.
Q4: Can I thicken the sauce without flour?
- Yes. Simmer longer to reduce, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry.
Q5: What wine pairs well with this dish?
- A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
Skillet apple cider chicken is a quick and cozy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful fall dinner. The sweet apple cider glaze, balanced with herbs and mustard, elevates juicy chicken into a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice, this one-skillet meal is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.