The Best Irresistible Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

Looking for the perfect cozy dinner this fall? This Irresistible Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is sweet, savory, and full of autumn flavor. Tender chicken is coated in a rich apple cider glaze made with garlic, Dijon mustard, and a touch of maple syrup—no alcohol or pork needed. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but special enough for guests.

This dish brings comfort and warmth to your table using wholesome ingredients you probably already have. Paired with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, it’s a fall dinner everyone will love. If you’re craving a simple yet flavorful seasonal recipe, this one’s for you.

Why You’ll Love This apple cider glazed chicken

This apple cider glazed chicken is a must-try for so many reasons. First, it’s packed with flavor—sweet apple cider reduced into a delicious glaze, with hints of garlic, mustard, and herbs. Second, it’s family-friendly and alcohol-free, making it perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, using simple pantry staples with no complicated steps. It’s healthy comfort food that reheats well and pairs beautifully with many sides. Whether you’re cooking for two or a crowd, this recipe delivers cozy vibes with every bite.

What You’ll Need

To make this apple cider glazed chicken, you’ll need a few simple, wholesome ingredients that pack in big flavor. Here’s what to gather:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier texture)
• 1 cup apple cider (non-alcoholic, not apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients are easy to find and create a sweet, tangy glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken. For extra depth, you can use fresh thyme instead of dried, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Just be sure to use real apple cider—not vinegar—to keep the flavor balanced and kid-friendly.

How to Make apple cider glazed chicken

Making this apple cider glazed chicken is straightforward and quick. Here’s how to bring it all together in under 40 minutes:

1. Prep the chicken:
   Season 4 chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the chicken:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the glaze:
   In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed), then sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until soft—about 2–3 minutes. Pour in 1 cup apple cider, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Stir and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce:
   Let the mixture cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a glaze.
5. Finish the dish:
   Return the chicken to the pan, spooning glaze over each piece. Let simmer for 2–3 more minutes until the chicken is well coated.
6. Garnish & serve:
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot with your favorite fall sides.

You Must Know apple cider glazed chicken

Before cooking, there are a few important tips to make your apple cider glazed chicken perfect:

• Use real apple cider, not vinegar—this gives the dish its natural sweetness.
• Chicken thighs are juicier, but breasts work great too.
• Let the glaze reduce properly—don’t rush it. This step thickens the sauce and concentrates flavor.
• Fresh garlic and onion add richer depth—much better than powders.
• Balance sweet and savory with Dijon mustard and thyme—they keep the dish from tasting too sugary.

These quick reminders will help ensure a flavorful and well-balanced dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Want that perfect bite every time? Here’s how:

• Sear the chicken well for a golden crust and juicy inside.
• Cook to 165°F to avoid dryness—use a thermometer if you can.
• Simmer the glaze slowly and stir often to avoid burning.
• Coat the chicken in the sauce during the final simmer for full flavor.
• Let it rest a few minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.

Follow these simple steps, and your chicken will come out tender, flavorful, and beautifully glazed.

Add Your Touch apple cider glazed chicken

Want to make this recipe your own? There are plenty of easy ways to customize:

• Add veggies: Toss in sliced apples, carrots, or Brussels sprouts during the final simmer for a one-pan meal.
• Swap the protein: Try the glaze with turkey cutlets or boneless chicken thighs for a different texture.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat.
• Herb it fresh: Garnish with fresh rosemary or sage for extra autumn flavor.
• Serve your way: Pair it with mashed sweet potatoes, wild rice, or roasted butternut squash.

This dish is flexible and adapts easily to what you have on hand or what your family loves.

Storing & Reheating

Got leftovers? No problem—this chicken reheats beautifully!

To store:
Place cooled chicken and glaze in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat:
Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of apple cider or broth until heated through. This helps loosen the glaze and keeps the chicken moist. You can also microwave in 30-second bursts, but stovetop is best for texture.

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To freeze:
Freeze chicken and glaze together in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Perfect for meal prep or a quick next-day lunch!

Chef’s Helpful Tips for apple cider glazed chicken

Make your apple cider glazed chicken shine with these pro tips:

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• Pound chicken evenly for uniform cooking—especially helpful with thick breasts.
• Use a wide skillet to avoid overcrowding and help the glaze reduce faster.
• Don’t skip the resting time. Let the chicken sit a few minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
• Double the glaze if you want extra for drizzling over sides like rice or veggies.
• Taste as you go. If the glaze is too sweet for your preference, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash more mustard.

These small tricks make a big difference in flavor and presentation.

FAQ for apple cider glazed chicken

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, but look for 100% pure apple juice with no added sugar. Apple cider has a richer, more robust flavor.

If you love quick and satisfying meals, this recipe is a must.

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Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—just ensure your mustard and other condiments are certified gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken instead?
Absolutely. Sear first, then transfer to a 375°F oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked.

What sides go best with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, wild rice, or green beans all pair beautifully.

How do I keep the glaze from burning?
Simmer on medium-low and stir often—watch closely once it begins to thicken.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and seasonal comfort. Made with simple ingredients like fresh apple cider, garlic, mustard, and herbs—this dish is easy enough for busy weeknights and special enough for fall gatherings. Plus, it’s family-friendly, alcohol-free, and completely customizable to your taste.

Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a cozy grain bowl, this chicken brings warm, comforting flavor to every bite. The glaze is the real star—rich, tangy, and perfectly balanced. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

So grab your skillet, stock up on apple cider, and bring a little fall magic to your dinner table. You’ll be surprised how a simple meal can feel so special.