Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with the rich flavors of apple cider, honey, and rosemary elevating the dish. Whether you’re preparing a comforting weeknight meal or a dinner party showstopper, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and full of seasonal flavors. Chicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe due to their juicy and tender nature, making them ideal for absorbing the glaze and pairing beautifully with fall vegetables like sweet potatoes and apples.
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Why You’ll Love These Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs
These cider glazed chicken thighs are a one-pan wonder that packs both main and side dishes into one easy skillet. The combination of crispy chicken skin, tender meat, and a glossy, sweet-and-sour glaze makes each bite irresistible. The addition of sweet potatoes and apples infuses the dish with a heartwarming fall vibe. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights but also elegant enough to serve at a dinner gathering.
Ingredients
- Sweet potato: Adds a soft, creamy texture and a touch of sweetness, complementing the savory chicken.
- Apples: Adds a crisp and juicy contrast to the richness of the chicken thighs; try Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a tart-sweet balance.
- Olive oil: Used to roast vegetables and sear the chicken for a golden, crispy skin.
- Fresh rosemary: Provides a fragrant, earthy note that pairs perfectly with the cider glaze.
- Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for this recipe, ensuring a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Apple cider: Forms the base of the glaze, providing a fruity, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of honey.
- Honey: Adds sweetness to the glaze and enhances the cider’s natural flavors.
- Grainy mustard: Introduces a slight tangy sharpness, cutting through the richness of the glaze.
- Butter: Enriches the glaze, adding a smooth, velvety texture to the sauce.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
- Sweet potatoes: Butternut squash makes a great alternative, adding a similar sweetness and texture.
- Apples: Pears can be used as an alternative for a subtler sweetness.
- Grainy mustard: Dijon mustard can be substituted for a milder, smoother flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, sliced apples, and chopped rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with one tablespoon of olive oil, and toss until evenly coated.
- In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear for about 2 minutes or until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the apple cider, honey, and grainy mustard. Bring to a rapid simmer, cooking until the mixture reduces slightly. Whisk in the butter until the glaze becomes smooth and glossy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, skin side up, and scatter the sweet potato and apple mixture around the chicken. Place the rosemary sprigs in the skillet, and turn off the heat.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. If the potatoes need more time, remove the chicken and let the sweet potatoes cook until fully tender.
- Serve the cider glazed chicken thighs with the roasted sweet potatoes and apples, drizzling the pan drippings over the top.
Tips & Tricks
- To avoid overcooking the chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For extra crispiness on the chicken skin, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the crispy skin.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
These cider glazed chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of fall-inspired side dishes. Consider serving with Parmesan roasted green beans, air fryer Moroccan-spiced carrots, or a creamy mashed potato casserole for a complete meal. If you’re looking to make it a lighter option, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be a great choice.
For variations, you can easily swap out the honey for maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a little heat.
Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal
Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs are not only delicious but also a great way to embrace fall’s seasonal ingredients. Sweet potatoes and apples are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, offering a nutritious boost to your meal. This recipe is also a great option for meal prep, providing a wholesome, balanced dish that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
With their comforting flavors and simple preparation, cider glazed chicken thighs are sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for the fall season. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet potatoes, and a tangy apple cider glaze makes for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Conclusion
Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs bring together the best of fall’s flavors in a hearty and satisfying meal. With juicy chicken, tender sweet potatoes, and crisp apples all glazed in a flavorful apple cider sauce, this dish is a perfect option for family dinners or special occasions. The ease of preparation and the one-pan cooking method make it a simple yet impressive choice for any weeknight or gathering. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home, this cider glazed chicken thighs recipe has got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs. However, keep in mind that boneless thighs may cook faster, so be sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking. You may also miss out on the crispy skin that bone-in thighs provide.
2. Can I make cider glazed chicken thighs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the recipe up to the point where the chicken goes into the oven. Store the dish in the refrigerator, and when ready to cook, simply pop it into the oven for a quick reheating. The flavors will continue to develop as it rests.
3. What other sides go well with cider glazed chicken thighs?
This dish pairs well with many fall sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette. For a heartier side, consider serving it with creamy polenta or buttery corn on the cob.
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PrintCider Glazed Chicken Thighs
Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs are a perfect fall dish, combining juicy chicken with sweet potatoes, apples, and a tangy cider glaze. This one-pan meal is easy to make, hearty, and full of seasonal flavors, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and dinner parties.
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 2 apples, sliced
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
- 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary
- kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, trimmed
- 2/3 cup apple cider
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 1 Tbsp. grainy mustard
- 1 Tbsp. butter
- 3 rosemary sprigs, for skillet
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, sliced apples, and chopped rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with one tablespoon of olive oil, and toss until evenly coated.
- In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear for about 2 minutes or until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the apple cider, honey, and grainy mustard. Bring to a rapid simmer, cooking until the mixture reduces slightly. Whisk in the butter until the glaze becomes smooth and glossy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, skin side up, and scatter the sweet potato and apple mixture around the chicken. Place the rosemary sprigs in the skillet, and turn off the heat.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. If the potatoes need more time, remove the chicken and let the sweet potatoes cook until fully tender.
- Serve the cider glazed chicken thighs with the roasted sweet potatoes and apples, drizzling the pan drippings over the top.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken skin for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- If you don’t have apple cider, you can substitute it with apple juice, though the flavor will be milder.
- This recipe works great for meal prepping; just store the cooked chicken and sides in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
