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Skillet Apple Cider Chicken (Quick & Easy)

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A cozy, one-skillet fall dinner featuring spiced chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory apple cider sauce with shallots and apples. Quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 2 apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken skin-side down and sear until golden, about 5–6 minutes. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté shallots and garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add sliced apples and cook for 3–4 minutes until just softened.
  5. Pour in apple cider and stir in brown sugar, scraping up any browned bits.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts; adjust cook time accordingly.
  • Add a splash of cream at the end for a richer sauce.
  • Stir in Dijon mustard for a tangy variation.
  • Apple juice can substitute cider but may need extra spices.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or green beans.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/skillet-apple-cider-chicken-quick-easy/