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Easy and Flavorful Apple Cider Chicken – A Cozy Fall Skillet Recipe

When autumn rolls in with crisp mornings and golden leaves, there’s nothing better than leaning into seasonal flavors — and this Easy and Flavorful Apple Cider Chicken is a delicious way to celebrate the cozy months ahead. Made with juicy chicken breasts simmered in a sweet and savory glaze of fresh apple cider, garlic, honey, thyme, and low-sodium soy sauce, this dish is everything fall meals should be: rich in flavor, beautifully aromatic, and quick enough for a weeknight dinner. Apple cider gives the sauce a natural sweetness, while soy sauce adds umami depth. The honey and garlic balance it all into a glossy glaze that clings to tender chicken like a warm autumn hug. Perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder is a must-try. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a warm salad for a full fall feast.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • This recipe uses everyday ingredients that come together for a dish bursting with flavor.
Protein:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Fruits & Vegetables:
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Condiments & Sweeteners:
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
Liquids:
  • 1 cup fresh apple cider
Oils:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Here’s what you’ll need to cook this simple yet elegant dish:
  • Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably with a lid)
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Garlic press or microplane (optional)
  • Small bowl for mixing sauce

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps to make your delicious apple cider chicken come together in less than 40 minutes:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. Season lightly with salt and pepper (optional).
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken breasts and sear 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  3. Remove from skillet and set aside (they will finish cooking in the sauce).
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
  2. Add minced garlic and fresh thyme.
  3. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant — be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, soy sauce, and honey.
  2. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the garlic and thyme.
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken
  1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet.
  2. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, turning once halfway through.
  3. Uncover and increase heat slightly to reduce the sauce.
  4. Simmer uncovered for another 5–7 minutes, spooning sauce over chicken until it thickens into a glaze.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Plate chicken with a generous drizzle of the apple cider glaze.
  2. Garnish with extra thyme leaves if desired.
  3. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Keep extra sauce in a small container for drizzling over leftovers.
Freezing:
Freeze cooked chicken (with sauce) for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
Or microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot, spooning sauce on top.
🥄 Variations
Want to mix things up? Try one of these cozy twists:
Add Apples: Slice 1 apple thinly and sauté it with the garlic for a fresh twist.
Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute with boneless thighs for a juicier result.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream at the end for a rich, velvety sauce.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Glaze for Grilling: Use the sauce as a glaze for grilled chicken instead of simmering.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, but choose unsweetened apple juice to prevent the sauce from becoming overly sweet.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes — this recipe contains no dairy as written.
3. What’s the best side dish to serve with apple cider chicken?
Try mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or roasted root vegetables for a full meal.
4. Can I bake the chicken instead of cooking it on the stove?
Yes, sear it first, then bake at 375°F with the sauce for 20–25 minutes.
5. Will this work with chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs cook evenly and stay moist.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
7. How do I know the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).
8. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very! The sauce is sweet, savory, and mild — great for all ages.
9. Can I prep this meal in advance?
Yes — you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
10. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes — sear the chicken, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours.
🏁 Conclusion
This Easy Apple Cider Chicken is the perfect blend of fall flavors and weeknight ease. Whether you're celebrating a cozy autumn evening or prepping for a festive gathering, this dish delivers warm, rich, seasonal comfort in every bite.
With its sweet, savory glaze and tender, juicy chicken, it’s sure to be a hit around any dinner table. Serve it with rustic sides, pour some apple cider on the side, and enjoy a meal that captures the heart of autumn — all in one skillet.