Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Recipe is a sweet and savory dish that is easy to make at home. The apple cider glaze adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements tender chicken.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The glaze is simple, using common ingredients like apple cider, honey and mustard. The chicken turns juicy and flavorful, while the glaze gives a beautiful golden color.
You can serve it with rice, roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. In this blog, I will show you how to make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips and serving suggestions.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first made Apple Cider Glazed Chicken on a busy weeknight. I wanted something quick, flavorful and comforting. The chicken cooked fast and absorbed the sweet-tangy glaze beautifully.
My family loved it, especially with steamed rice and roasted carrots. The aroma filled the kitchen and made the meal feel special. I love this recipe because it is easy, forgiving and full of flavor. It works for casual dinners or when guests come over. Now, I make it often for a quick, delicious meal.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 360 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Frying pan or skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or tongs
- Small saucepan (optional for glaze)
Ingredients You Need for Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide
- Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry. Sprinkle salt, pepper and thyme on both sides. Rub seasoning gently. - Heat the Pan
Add olive oil to a skillet. Heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking. - Cook the Chicken
Place chicken in the skillet. Cook 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and almost cooked. - Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard and minced garlic. Stir well. - Pour Glaze Over Chicken
Add the glaze to the skillet. Coat chicken evenly. Reduce heat to low. - Simmer the Chicken
Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender. - Finish with Butter
Add butter to the pan. Stir gently to create a shiny, rich glaze coating the chicken. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve hot with your favorite sides. Drizzle extra glaze for more flavor.
Tips to Make the Best Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
- Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook chicken; it becomes dry quickly.
- Stir the glaze occasionally for even coating.
- Use a non-stick pan for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Serve immediately for the juiciest chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too high heat and burning the glaze.
- Skipping seasoning on chicken; it enhances the flavor.
- Overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Using old or flat apple cider; it affects taste.
- Forgetting to baste the chicken with glaze during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Apple Cider Glazed Chicken pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Steamed broccoli, carrots or green beans complement the dish. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter option.
Drizzle extra glaze over chicken and sides to enhance flavor. This recipe works well for family dinners, meal prep or casual gatherings. Add a slice of lemon on the side for a fresh, tangy finish.
Variations You Can Try
- Add sliced apples to the skillet for extra sweetness.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for more tang.
- Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top for crunch.
- Mix in dried cranberries for a sweet-tart twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
- Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through.
- Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep chicken tender.
- Store glaze separately to prevent soggy chicken.
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Health Benefits
Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a healthy, balanced meal. Chicken provides lean protein for muscles. Apple cider adds natural antioxidants and vitamins. Using olive oil and butter in moderation provides healthy fats.
This dish is lower in calories than fried chicken meals but still comforting and satisfying. Apples and apple cider can support digestion and boost immunity. Overall, it is flavorful, wholesome and perfect for a nourishing dinner.
Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme optional
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Season the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry. Sprinkle salt, pepper and thyme on both sides. Rub seasoning gently.
Heat the Pan
- Add olive oil to a skillet. Heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
Cook the Chicken
- Place chicken in the skillet. Cook 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and almost cooked.
Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Stir well.
Pour Glaze Over Chicken
- Add the glaze to the skillet. Coat chicken evenly. Reduce heat to low.
Simmer the Chicken
- Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Finish with Butter
- Add butter to the pan. Stir gently to create a shiny, rich glaze coating the chicken.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve hot with your favorite sides. Drizzle extra glaze for more flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook chicken; it becomes dry quickly.
- Stir the glaze occasionally for even coating.
- Use a non-stick pan for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Serve immediately for the juiciest chicken.
FAQs about Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw completely first. This ensures even cooking and prevents a watery glaze.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Cook similarly and allow glaze to absorb flavor.
Q3: Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, mix apple cider, honey, mustard and garlic ahead. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q4: Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne to the glaze for a mild kick.
Q5: What type of apple cider works best?
Fresh, unsweetened apple cider is best. It has natural flavor and sweetness without being too strong.
Final Thoughts
Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Recipe is a simple, flavorful dish anyone can make. The tangy-sweet glaze and tender chicken create a delicious combination. You now know how to make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken, the ingredients needed, and useful tips for perfect results.
Serve it with rice, vegetables or mashed potatoes for a full meal. This recipe is beginner-friendly, quick and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it tonight for a comforting, healthy and tasty dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!