Irresistible Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Recipe Delight

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The aroma of Skillet Apple Cider Chicken wafts through the air, filling your kitchen with a warm and inviting scent that promises comfort in every bite. Imagine succulent chicken breasts simmering in a sweet and tangy apple cider sauce, accented with spices that dance on your palate.

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This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and crisp autumn evenings. Whether you’re hosting friends for a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this Skillet Apple Cider Chicken recipe is sure to impress with its delightful combination of flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Skillet Apple Cider Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
  • The flavor profile blends sweet and savory notes that appeal to everyone
  • Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper on any dinner table
  • You can serve it with various sides like rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal

I remember the first time I made this dish; my family couldn’t stop raving about how juicy and flavorful the chicken was.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose fresh chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor in your skillet.

  • Apple Cider: Use pure apple cider, not concentrate, for authentic sweetness and depth.

  • Onions: Sweet onions enhance the flavor balance beautifully when sautéed until caramelized.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic complexity; don’t skimp on it!

  • Dijon Mustard: It provides a slight tanginess that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cider.

  • Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates this dish with its earthy fragrance—dried works too in a pinch!

  • Cinnamon: A pinch adds warmth and an unexpected twist to the flavor profile.

  • Olive Oil: For sautéing; use extra virgin for added richness.

  • Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all the flavors of your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

How to Make Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together for easy access while cooking. Chop onions and mince garlic so they’re ready to go.

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic after removing chicken. Sauté until onions become translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes.

Create the Sauce: Pour in apple cider, stirring gently while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible flavor!

Add Seasonings: Stir in Dijon mustard, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer; let it bubble away for about 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Finish Cooking: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and cook until heated through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). The glaze will look glossy and appetizing!

Now you have a delicious Skillet Apple Cider Chicken ready to serve! Enjoy every bite as you gather around the table with family or friends.

You Must Know

  • This Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate
  • The sweet and tangy apple cider combined with tender chicken creates a delightful dish that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas
  • Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices, then simmer it in apple cider for flavor fusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap apple cider for white wine or add seasonal veggies like carrots for extra color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in apple cider
  • Use fresh herbs like rosemary to elevate the taste
  • Remember to let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy!

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of a chilly evening when my friends devoured every last bite, leaving me feeling like a culinary superhero.

FAQ

What type of apples work best for this Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Recipe?

Use sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for optimal flavor balance.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, preparing it in advance makes flavors even more delicious overnight!

What sides pair well with Skillet Apple Cider Chicken?

Mashed potatoes or steamed green beans complement this dish beautifully.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Skillet Apple Cider Chicken


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Skillet Apple Cider Chicken delivers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, enveloping tender chicken breasts in a rich apple cider sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. With aromatic spices and a quick cooking method, you’ll savor every bite while enjoying the warm, inviting scent that fills your kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup pure apple cider
  • 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 0.5 tsp dried)
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  3. Remove chicken; add onions and garlic to the skillet and sauté until translucent (about 4 minutes).
  4. Pour in apple cider, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
  5. Stir in Dijon mustard, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens.
  6. Return chicken to skillet; spoon sauce over it and cook until heated through (165°F internal temperature).
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

 

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