Name: Delicious Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Autumn Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1 cup apple cider; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil); 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup carrots, shredded; 1 medium apple (preferably Granny Smith), thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Sticky Apple Cider Chicken is a delightful dish that blends the savory taste of chicken with the sweet tang of apple cider. This recipe features succulent chicken thighs glazed with a rich apple cider sauce, served alongside a refreshing autumn slaw. Every bite offers a perfect combination of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish brings the essence of fall into your home.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken Recipe is not just delicious; it offers several benefits that make it a perfect choice for dinner. First, the use of apple cider creates a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and savory. Second, it’s a healthy option, with chicken thighs packed with protein and the addition of fresh vegetables in the slaw. Third, this dish is quick to prepare, taking only 45 minutes from start to finish. Fourth, it’s versatile; you can enjoy it on its own or with various sides. Fifth, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties. You’ll find that this dish is an easy sticky apple cider chicken recipe that everyone will love!

Delicious Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Autumn Slaw - Sticky Apple Cider Chicken - main visual representation

Ingredients for Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

Gather these items:

6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1 cup apple cider
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrots, shredded
1 medium apple (preferably Granny Smith), thinly sliced
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped

How to Make Sticky Apple Cider Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup apple cider, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces and thickens into a sticky glaze that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 2: Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Place them skin side down and sear until the skin is golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the chicken is almost cooked through.
Step 3: Glaze the chicken: Pour the prepared apple cider glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook gently, spooning the glaze over the thighs frequently, until the glaze becomes sticky and caramelized, coating the chicken beautifully.
Step 4: Make the crisp autumn slaw: While the chicken cooks, combine shredded green cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced apple in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the slaw and toss gently to combine. Finish by stirring in chopped fresh parsley or chives for brightness.
Step 5: Plate and serve: Arrange the sticky apple cider chicken thighs on plates alongside a generous portion of the crisp autumn slaw. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect harmony of sticky, sweet chicken and refreshing, crunchy slaw.

Pro Tips for the Best Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
Use any apple variety for the slaw based on preference.
For a healthier twist, consider using skinless chicken thighs or substituting some honey with a natural sweetener.
Cook the chicken in a one-pot sticky apple cider chicken style to simplify cleanup.

Best Ways to Serve Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

To complement your meal, consider these serving suggestions: Pair the sticky apple cider chicken with a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty meal, or serve it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also enjoy it with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious glaze.

How to Store and Reheat Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, occasionally spooning some of the glaze over it to keep it moist. You can also use a microwave, but be cautious not to overcook it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Sticky Apple Cider Chicken?

The secret lies in the slow cooking process after glazing the chicken, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Using high-quality apple cider ensures a rich, authentic taste that elevates the dish.

Can I make Sticky Apple Cider Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze and marinate the chicken in apple cider ahead of time. This will enhance the flavors and make for a quick cooking process when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sticky Apple Cider Chicken?

Avoid overcooking the chicken by monitoring the heat and cooking time closely. Ensure the glaze is thick enough before adding the chicken to prevent it from becoming too watery.

Variations of Sticky Apple Cider Chicken You Can Try

For a twist on this classic dish, consider preparing baked sticky apple cider chicken using chicken breasts instead of thighs. You can also create a slow-cooked sticky apple cider chicken by using a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to deepen over several hours. Experimenting with different herbs can also provide a unique flavor profile, such as adding rosemary or thyme to the glaze.

For more tips on cooking chicken, check out this guide on chicken cooking techniques. If you’re interested in healthy eating, you might want to read about healthy meal options. Additionally, for more delicious recipes, visit our recipe collection.