Irresistible Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

The aroma of Skillet Apple Cider Chicken fills the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace that’s as comforting as a favorite sweater on a chilly autumn day. Picture juicy chicken seared to golden perfection, subtly sweet apple cider cascading over it like liquid gold, and earthy herbs mingling in the background. Your taste buds are about to party like it’s 1999, and I can guarantee they’ll be sending you thank-you notes afterward.

Remember that one Thanksgiving when your aunt decided it was time for a turkey-less feast? You had your heart set on stuffing your face with something scrumptious and, lo and behold, this dish made its glorious debut. It was love at first bite! This Skillet Apple Cider Chicken is not just for special occasions; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick yet impressive. quick chicken stir fry So grab your skillet and prepare for flavor fireworks!

Ingredients for Skillet Apple Cider Chicken

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best here. Adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
• Apple Cider: Use fresh apple cider if possible; its sweetness elevates the dish to new heights.
• Fresh Thyme: This herb adds an aromatic touch that complements the sweetness of the cider beautifully.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps achieve that crispy exterior while keeping everything juicy inside.

For the Sauce:

• Brown Sugar: The brown sugar enhances the caramelization of the chicken and adds depth to the sauce.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder brings savory goodness into play, making everything more delicious.

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

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How to Make Skillet Apple Cider Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop any necessary vegetables and have everything ready so you can cook like a pro without running around looking for that elusive jar of thyme.

Step 2: Heat The Pan

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. You want it sizzling hot but not smoking—think of it as getting ready for a dance party!

Step 3: Sear The Chicken

Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Sear them until they turn golden brown (about 5-7 minutes per side). Flip them only once; patience is key here.

Step 4: Create The Sauce

In a small bowl, mix apple cider, brown sugar, garlic powder, and thyme together until combined. Pour this sweet concoction over the chicken in the skillet after browning.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer together for about 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Step 6: Serve With Style

Transfer your beautiful chicken to plates, drizzling extra sauce from the pan over each piece. Serve with your favorite sides; I highly recommend buttery mashed potatoes or roasted veggies!

Now sit back and enjoy all those compliments pouring in like confetti after a parade!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken in your skillet until golden brown. While that’s happening, mix the apple cider and spices in a separate bowl. Once the chicken is browned, pour in the cider mixture and let it simmer to perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the apple cider for pear or cranberry juice if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add some garlic or rosemary for an extra flavor kick. Customize it to suit your taste buds! For more inspiration, check out this cinnamon pear walnut crumble recipe.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to keep the chicken juicy and tender.

Sometimes, I whip up this Skillet Apple Cider Chicken when friends visit, and their oohs and aahs make me feel like a culinary rock star! It’s always a hit and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs:

What is Skillet Apple Cider Chicken?

Skillet Apple Cider Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful apple cider sauce. The dish typically features sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, giving it a warm and inviting taste. tender chicken breast recipe This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, showcasing the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider while keeping the chicken juicy and succulent.

How do I make Skillet Apple Cider Chicken?

To make Skillet Apple Cider Chicken, start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown. Remove the chicken and sauté onions and garlic in the same pan. garlic parmesan chicken Add apple cider, bring to a simmer, and return the chicken to cook through. Finish with herbs for added flavor. This method ensures that each bite is infused with the delicious sauce.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt this Skillet Apple Cider Chicken recipe by using other meats such as pork or turkey. Each type of meat will bring its unique flavor profile to the dish. Ensure proper cooking times vary since different meats require different durations to become tender and fully cooked. Adjusting seasonings may also enhance the overall taste based on your meat choice.

What side dishes pair well with Skillet Apple Cider Chicken?

Several side dishes complement Skillet Apple Cider Chicken beautifully. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables for added nutrition or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting touch. delicious chicken salad A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish nicely. For a heartier option, quinoa or wild rice can round out your meal perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.

Conclusion for Skillet Apple Cider Chicken:

Skillet Apple Cider Chicken is an easy yet impressive dish that combines savory flavors with sweet apple cider notes. By using simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, you can create a meal that delights everyone at your table. This recipe not only highlights seasonal ingredients but also demonstrates how to achieve maximum flavor in minimal time. Enjoy this delicious dish any night of the week for a satisfying family dinner!

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Skillet Apple Cider Chicken

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• Author: Charlotte Flores
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Skillet Apple Cider Chicken is a comforting dish that captures the essence of autumn with tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, sweet apple cider sauce. This recipe is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, offering a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, this dish will impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup fresh apple cider
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. In a bowl, mix apple cider, brown sugar, garlic powder, and thyme; pour over the chicken.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve the chicken with drizzled sauce over it and enjoy with your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (about 6 oz)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, substitute apple cider with pear or cranberry juice. - Enhance the dish by adding minced garlic or rosemary during cooking. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.