Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs: The Ultimate Fall Recipe

Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs are a perfect combination of savory and sweet, making them an ideal dish for autumn evenings. The rich, caramelized glaze of apple cider, honey, and mustard adds a tangy twist to the juicy chicken thighs, creating a deliciously comforting meal. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy dinner party, this easy recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs Recipe

Apple cider glazed chicken thighs offer a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly meal. The combination of chicken thighs, apples, and sweet potatoes provides a balanced dish that’s both hearty and healthy. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a satisfying meal ready in under an hour. Plus, the rich apple cider glaze elevates the flavors, giving it a distinct, warming taste that’s perfect for fall.

Ingredients for Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs

• Sweet Potatoes: Adds a tender, earthy sweetness and makes this dish filling.
• Apples: The apples bring a juicy, crisp sweetness that balances the savory chicken and potatoes.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken and roasting the vegetables, it adds richness.
• Rosemary: Imparts an aromatic, woodsy flavor that complements the savory and sweet elements of the dish.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, Skin-on): The chicken thighs offer rich, juicy flavor and crispy skin when seared.
• Apple Cider: Provides a sweet and tart base for the glaze, offering a deep, fruity flavor.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness to balance the cider’s acidity.
• Grainy Mustard: A tangy element that enhances the depth of the glaze.
• Butter: Brings richness and helps emulsify the glaze for a smooth texture.
• Rosemary Sprigs: These are used to infuse the dish with fragrance while it bakes.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Sweet Potatoes: Butternut squash or parsnips can be a great substitute for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Apples: Try using Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Golden Delicious apples for varying levels of sweetness and tartness.
• Chicken Thighs: For a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, but they may require slightly less cooking time.
• Honey: Maple syrup can be swapped for honey for a deeper, more robust sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a medium bowl, combine cubed sweet potatoes, sliced apples, and chopped rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and toss everything together.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear for about 2 minutes until golden. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Make the Glaze: In the same skillet, add apple cider, honey, and mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Whisk in butter for a smooth finish.
4. Bake the Chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side up. Scatter the sweet potato and apple mixture around the chicken, and add a few sprigs of rosemary. Turn off the heat and transfer the skillet to the oven.
5. Finish Cooking: Bake for about 20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. If the potatoes need more time, remove the chicken to rest and continue cooking the potatoes until soft.
6. Serve: Serve the chicken thighs with the roasted sweet potatoes and apples, drizzling the pan juices over the top for extra flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
• Crispy Skin: For even crispier chicken skin, try broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepped ahead of time. Store the chicken and vegetable mixture separately and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake when ready to serve.
• Customize the Glaze: Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or using a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

To make this Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs meal even more indulgent, pair your cider glazed chicken thighs with sides like Parmesan roasted green beans or air fryer Moroccan-spiced carrots. For a richer twist, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto.

If you’re looking for a spicier version, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure that the mustard you use is certified gluten-free.

Why Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs Are Perfect for Fall

This dish brings together the best flavors of the season. The apple cider glaze is the perfect way to incorporate the fruity, autumnal tastes of fall into a savory dish. The sweet potatoes and apples make this a hearty and comforting meal, while the chicken thighs provide rich, juicy protein. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, cider glazed chicken thighs are a delicious way to celebrate fall flavors.

Conclusion

Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs offer a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making them a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting and flavorful fall meal. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the dish with different vegetables, apples, or even a spicier glaze. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a busy weeknight or a special dinner gathering, the tender chicken thighs paired with the apple cider glaze and roasted vegetables are sure to leave everyone at the table satisfied. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, seasonal flavors of fall in every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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