Glazed Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

Capture the cozy flavors of fall with Glazed Sticky Apple Cider Chicken, a comforting seasonal dinner that feels special yet easy enough for a weeknight. In the very first bite, you’ll taste the sweet tang of fresh apple cider balanced by savory herbs and rich, golden chicken thighs. As the cider reduces, it transforms into a glossy, sticky glaze that clings to every bite, making this dish perfect for crisp September evenings when you crave warmth and flavor without heavy ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Glazed Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

This recipe checks all the boxes for a fall favorite. It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients, yet the flavor feels restaurant-worthy. The apple cider brings natural sweetness without refined sugar, while whole-grain mustard and apple cider vinegar add just enough tang to keep things balanced. Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures juicy meat and crispy skin, and the sticky glaze makes it irresistible. Pair it with a crisp autumn slaw, and you have a dinner that feels hearty but never heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 cups high-quality unfiltered apple cider
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 medium shallots, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Glazed Sticky Apple Cider Chicken (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 6–8 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crisp. Flip briefly, then remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Lower the heat to medium. Add the sliced shallots to the same skillet and cook until softened and lightly caramelized. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Apple Cider Glaze

Pour in the apple cider and apple cider vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the whole-grain mustard, butter, and fresh thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer Until Sticky

Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Let everything simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chicken occasionally. The sauce should reduce and thicken into a shiny, sticky glaze, and the chicken should be tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the glaze coats the back of a spoon, remove the thyme sprigs. Spoon extra glaze over the chicken and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crisp skin, place the skillet under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end.
• Boneless, skinless thighs work too—just reduce the simmering time slightly.
• Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a deeper autumn flavor.
• Add sliced apples during the last 10 minutes for extra fall flair.
• For a lighter sauce, use half apple cider and half unsweetened apple juice.

Serving Ideas & Storage

This glazed sticky apple cider chicken pairs beautifully with a crisp autumn slaw, roasted sweet potatoes, or buttery mashed potatoes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the glaze’s texture.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sodium
~420	28g	18g	26g	1g	680mg

Final Thoughts

Glazed Sticky Apple Cider Chicken is everything we love about fall cooking—simple, cozy, and full of seasonal flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this dish brings warmth and comfort to the table with minimal effort and maximum reward.