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1-Pan Apple Cider Chicken (Quick & Easy) | Cozy Weeknight Dinner

When crisp apples and cozy flavors meet juicy chicken, the result is a weeknight dinner that feels both comforting and elegant. This 1-Pan Apple Cider Chicken is exactly that—tender chicken breasts seared to perfection, simmered in a sweet-savory apple cider sauce with garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. It’s a dish that tastes like fall in a skillet but is quick enough to whip up on busy weeknights. With just one pan, minimal cleanup, and simple ingredients, you’ll have a family-friendly meal that looks and tastes like something straight out of a bistro. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice, and you’ll have a dinner that feels cozy, balanced, and satisfying—all in under 40 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup apple cider non-alcoholic
  • ½ cup chicken broth low sodium
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon thyme fresh or dried
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 apple thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best)
  • Tongs
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Cutting board & sharp knife

Method
 

Step 1: Sear the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
  4. Stir in Dijon mustard and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 3: Return Chicken & Finish
  1. Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top.
  2. Simmer on low for 8–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
  3. Optional: Add apple slices during the last few minutes for a rustic garnish.
Step 4: Serve
  1. Plate chicken with generous spoonfuls of sauce.
  2. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken with sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cider. Microwave in short bursts if needed.
🥄 Variations
Apple Cider Cream Sauce: Add ¼ cup heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Herb Swap: Use rosemary instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
Chicken Thighs: Swap breasts for thighs—juicier and just as delicious.
Veggie Add-Ins: Add sliced carrots or Brussels sprouts for a full one-pan meal.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, but apple cider has a deeper flavor. If using juice, add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use olive oil instead of butter.
3. Do I have to use Dijon mustard?
It adds depth, but you can substitute with whole-grain mustard.
4. Can I make this with pork instead of chicken?
Yes, pork chops work beautifully with this sauce.
5. What sides go best with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or wild rice.
6. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or whisk in 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water.
7. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, just adjust cooking time (about 5 minutes longer).
8. What’s the difference between apple cider and cider vinegar?
Apple cider is sweet and drinkable; vinegar is sharp and not interchangeable here.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches.
10. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely—the sauce is sweet-savory and mild.
🏁 Conclusion
This 1-Pan Apple Cider Chicken is cozy, flavorful, and quick—everything you want in a weeknight dinner. With its sweet apple cider sauce, juicy chicken, and minimal cleanup, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and special.
Whether you’re serving it as a simple family meal or impressing guests, this recipe proves that easy cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that’s wholesome, hearty, and truly irresistible.