Name: French Apple Cider Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 shallots or 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup apple cider (non-alcoholic); 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary; 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, to thin sauce); 1/3 cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 small apple, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

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French Apple Cider Chicken is a cozy, elegant dish that features tender pan-seared chicken simmered in a flavorful apple cider sauce with aromatic herbs, Dijon mustard, and cream. I love how the apple cider adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory richness of the sauce. It’s the kind of rustic French-inspired comfort food that feels special but comes together easily on a weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both simple and refined. The apple cider reduces into a slightly sweet, concentrated sauce that blends beautifully with garlic, shallots, and cream. A touch of mustard adds just the right kick, and the chicken stays juicy and full of flavor. It’s perfect for fall and winter, but honestly, I make it year-round because it’s just that good. French Apple Cider Chicken

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil or butter
Garlic cloves (minced)
Shallots or onions (thinly sliced)
Apple cider (non-alcoholic)
Dijon mustard
Fresh thyme or rosemary
Chicken broth (optional, to adjust sauce consistency)
Heavy cream
Salt
Black pepper
Apple slices (optional, for garnish or extra texture)

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I sauté the shallots and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
I pour in the apple cider, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. I let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes until slightly reduced.
I stir in Dijon mustard and fresh thyme, then return the chicken to the pan. I let it simmer in the cider for about 10–15 minutes until cooked through.
I lower the heat and stir in the cream, letting the sauce thicken slightly. I adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Optional: I add thin apple slices during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor and texture.
I serve it hot, spooning the sauce over the chicken and garnishing with fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10–15 minutes to prep and 25–30 minutes to cook, so I have a beautiful meal on the table in about 40–45 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar along with the cider for a more complex sauce. I’ve also made this with bone-in chicken for extra flavor, but I just adjust the cooking time. For a dairy-free version, I skip the cream or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or oat cream. Adding sautéed mushrooms also gives it an earthy twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too—about 1–2 minutes per piece, covered. I don’t recommend freezing this one, as the sauce may separate when thawed. French Apple Cider Chicken

FAQs

Can I use hard cider instead of apple cider?

Yes, I sometimes use hard cider for a more grown-up, slightly tangy version. It still works beautifully in the sauce.

What’s the best type of chicken to use?

I like boneless, skinless thighs for tenderness, but chicken breasts work well too. I just make sure not to overcook them so they stay juicy.

How do I know when the cider is reduced enough?

I let it simmer until it’s visibly thicker and darker in color, and it coats the back of a spoon. It usually takes about 5–7 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes make the sauce and sear the chicken ahead of time, then simmer everything together right before serving for the freshest texture.

What should I serve this with?

I usually pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up that sauce. Buttered egg noodles also work really well.

Conclusion

French Apple Cider Chicken is the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and creamy—an easy yet elegant dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. I love how it feels a little fancy without requiring complicated steps or ingredients. Whether I’m cooking for a cozy night in or a dinner with friends, this dish always impresses.