Name: Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 cup fresh apple cider; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 3 tablespoons light brown sugar; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Imagine biting into a piece of chicken so succulent, it practically melts in your mouth, drizzled with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze that dances across your taste buds. The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to make even the most determined dieter weak at the knees. sweet and tangy mango chicken This dish, Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs, not only satisfies cravings but also brings a warm sense of nostalgia as it fills your kitchen with comforting scents reminiscent of family gatherings and festive dinners.

I remember the first time I made Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs for my friends during a chilly fall evening. We gathered around the table, laughter echoing as we savored every bite, with everyone asking for seconds—and possibly thirds! It’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or as a showstopper at gatherings. easy sheet pan chicken dinner Get ready to unleash flavors that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful chicken thigh dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
The sweet and tangy glaze elevates ordinary chicken into something extraordinary
Visually appealing with its glossy finish, this dish looks like it belongs in a gourmet restaurant
Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, from casual meals to special celebrations

I once prepared this dish for my family reunion, and let me tell you, they still talk about it!

Essential Ingredients

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

Chicken Thighs: Opt for bone-in and skin-on thighs for juiciness and flavor; boneless can work too if you’re short on time.
Apple Cider: Choose fresh-pressed cider for that authentic fall flavor; avoid anything overly sweetened or processed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a punch of flavor; minced garlic works well if you’re in a pinch.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch; substitute dried thyme if fresh isn’t available.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives just the right hint of sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while enhancing the glaze’s depth of flavor.
Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds warmth without overwhelming heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat dry about 4-6 chicken thighs with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Create Your Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of apple cider, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, minced garlic cloves, and thyme until well combined. This mixture should smell heavenly already!

Sear the Chicken Thighs: Heat some olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown—this creates that mouthwatering crispy skin.

Add the Glaze: Once browned, flip the chicken thighs over and pour your apple cider glaze evenly over them in the skillet. Make sure every piece gets some love from that glaze.

Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen will start smelling like a cozy autumn festival!

Finish Up: After removing from the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows those juices to redistribute—trust me; you want juicy meat!

And there you have it! Delicious Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs that are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to snag an invite to dinner! bourbon maple glaze for turkey.

You Must Know

These apple cider glazed chicken thighs are not just delicious; they’re a weeknight game-changer
The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen
Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down first for crispy skin, then brush with glaze while baking. This sequence ensures a delectable texture and flavor that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Experiment with spices like cinnamon or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile. Adding sliced apples or onions to the roasting pan can create an irresistible aroma and extra depth.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness; aim for 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Perfectly cooked chicken thighs require patience; don’t rush the searing process
Allow them to brown nicely before flipping to seal in juices
Always check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption

I remember serving these apple cider glazed chicken thighs at a family gathering, and my cousin kept asking for seconds! It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoy something so simple yet flavorful. pumpkin spice chicken tenders.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust cooking time since breasts cook faster than thighs.

What can I serve with apple cider glazed chicken thighs?

For more inspiration, check out this one pan chicken recipe recipe.

Pair them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F at the thickest part of the thigh.