Savory Cider Glazed Chicken for Home Cooks

Introduction

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the warmth of a home-cooked meal. This flavorful cider glazed chicken recipe combines the essence of autumn with tender, juicy chicken, making it a perfect centerpiece for any dinner.

The sweet and tangy cider glaze enriches the chicken, bringing out its natural flavors while adding a delightful twist. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Directions & Preparation

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the cider glaze over the chicken, ensuring all surfaces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the remaining glaze for later use.
4. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Pour the reserved cider glaze over the chicken and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with any remaining glaze from the skillet before serving.

FAQs

What if my glaze is too thick?

If your glaze is too thick, add a splash of apple cider or water to thin it out while heating.

How can I make the glaze spicier?

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the glaze.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and they remain tender during cooking.

What can I do if my chicken is overcooked?

If your chicken becomes overcooked and dry, consider slicing it and mixing it back into the glaze to help retain moisture.

Can I substitute apple cider with something else?

You can use apple juice or a mix of apple juice and vinegar as a substitute for apple cider.

What sides pair well with cider glazed chicken?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to complement the flavors.

Conclusion

This cider glazed chicken is not just a meal; it's an experience that encapsulates the flavors of the season. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, the combination of sweet and savory will impress everyone at the table.

With its straightforward preparation and delicious results, you'll find this recipe becoming a staple in your cooking repertoire. Embrace the comfort of home cooking and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish.

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Savory Cider Glazed Chicken for Home Cooks

Flavorful Cider Glazed Chicken Recipe made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
• Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the cider glaze over the chicken, ensuring all surfaces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the remaining glaze for later use.
• In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Pour the reserved cider glaze over the chicken and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with any remaining glaze from the skillet before serving.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.