Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

Name: Skillet Apple Cider Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 6 slices bacon; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cups chicken broth, divided; 2 cups apple cider, divided; 2 apples - peeled, cored, and sliced; 4 sage leaves; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 4 tablespoons butter

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 strips bacon
1 onion, sliced
2 cups chicken broth, divided
2 cups apple cider, divided
2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
4 sage leaves
2 sprigs fresh thyme
4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

Step 1: Season the chicken thighs with salt and set them aside.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook them until browned on both sides, about 7 to 10 minutes. Transfer the thighs to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add the bacon and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until it is evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then discard any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 4: Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 5: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of apple cider. Stir and cook until the mixture has reduced by half, which will take about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Add the cooked bacon, sliced apples, sage leaves, and thyme sprigs to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 7: Add the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of apple cider to the skillet. Stir everything together.

Step 8: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, making sure they are fully immersed in the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the chicken for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.

Step 9: Transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a serving platter.

Step 10: Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the unsalted butter and swirl it into the sauce until it melts and combines smoothly.

Step 11: Pour the buttery sauce over the chicken thighs and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 395
Total Fat: 24g (31% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 9g (45% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 103mg (34% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1118mg (49% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 20g (7% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 16g
Protein: 24g (47% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 4mg (4% Daily Value)
Calcium: 22mg (2% Daily Value)
Iron: 1mg (7% Daily Value)
Potassium: 310mg (7% Daily Value)

History and Origin

The Skillet Apple Cider Chicken recipe is a perfect embodiment of American comfort food, especially during the fall months. This dish combines classic autumn ingredients like apples, apple cider, and fresh herbs, making it a seasonal favorite. While it doesnt have a specific regional origin, its closely associated with the flavors of the northeastern United States, particularly the New England region, where apple cider and apples are staples of the harvest season. The dish draws from the rich culinary tradition of braised meats, where chicken or pork is simmered in flavorful liquids to enhance the meats tenderness and flavor. The combination of savory and sweet elements in this recipe reflects the influence of American farm-to-table cooking, where locally sourced ingredients are celebrated.

Regional Variations

While the core recipe remains consistent, different regions may offer slight variations. In the Northeast, apple cider is a key ingredient, and local varieties of apples such as Honeycrisp or Gala are often used. In the southern United States, the addition of more robust herbs like rosemary or the inclusion of a dash of hot sauce can add a regional twist. The savory bacon and fresh thyme are common across all versions, but you may find regional cooks experimenting with local ingredients. For example, in the Midwest, some might add a touch of maple syrup for extra sweetness, aligning with the regions love for maple products. This dish is versatile, allowing cooks to adjust the flavor profile according to their locality and preferences.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Skillet Apple Cider Chicken stands out from other chicken dishes due to its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. While many chicken recipes focus on either a savory or sweet profile, this dish achieves a balanced harmony by pairing the tartness of apple cider with the richness of bacon and butter. Unlike a typical roasted chicken, where the meat is dry-roasted or baked, this skillet method involves simmering the chicken in a flavorful sauce that infuses the meat with moisture and tenderness. Additionally, compared to other braised dishes, the use of apple cider and fresh fruit like apples in this recipe provides a light, refreshing contrast to the heavier, savory elements. The result is a delightful blend of flavors that sets it apart from standard braised chicken or chicken with gravy.

Where It's Served

Skillet Apple Cider Chicken is a dish that can be served in a variety of settings, from casual weeknight dinners to more formal gatherings. Its especially popular in fall and early winter, aligning with the harvest season and holiday feasts. This dish is often served in family-style meals or as part of a larger holiday spread, such as Thanksgiving or a Christmas dinner. The richness of the sauce, combined with the tender chicken and apples, makes it an ideal pairing with side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice. Its a wonderful dish to serve at a dinner party or holiday gathering, where the comforting flavors can be enjoyed with friends and family.

Interesting Facts

1. Apple cider has been used in cooking for centuries. It was originally made by fermenting apple juice, but today its mostly a non-alcoholic beverage that adds a unique flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.

2. The use of bacon in the recipe adds a smoky, savory flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cider and apples. Its a nod to the American tradition of adding bacon to many dishes to enhance flavor.

3. Chicken thighs are preferred in this recipe due to their ability to stay juicy and tender when cooked in a skillet. Thighs are also more forgiving in terms of cooking time, making them an excellent choice for beginner cooks.

4. The herbs usedsage and thymeare traditional fall herbs that pair wonderfully with poultry. Sage, in particular, has an earthy, slightly peppery flavor that balances the sweetness of the cider and apples.

5. Although apple cider chicken is commonly served with rice or mashed potatoes, it can also be paired with something like roasted root vegetables or even served atop a bed of sauted greens for a lighter, more seasonal twist.

FAQ about Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken and sauce are cooled down before sealing. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The sauce may thicken slightly upon storage, so you can add a little chicken broth or apple cider to loosen it up while reheating.

Yes, you can freeze the Skillet Apple Cider Chicken for up to 2 months. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it's sealed well to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. The texture of the chicken may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor should still be great.

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or bone-in chicken breasts. If you use chicken breasts, the cooking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Boneless chicken breasts will also cook faster, so reduce the skillet time accordingly.

Yes, dried herbs can be used in place of fresh ones. The general rule is to use 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe when substituting dried herbs for fresh. For example, use 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage and 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of fresh.

Skillet Apple Cider Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice (like brown or basmati), egg noodles, or roasted vegetables. The sauce also complements any starchy side, as it adds a rich, flavorful element to your meal.

If the sauce turns out too watery, it might not have been reduced long enough. Be sure to simmer it for the full 10 minutes to allow the liquid to thicken before adding the rest of the broth and cider. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it further or add a little cornstarch mixed with water to achieve the desired consistency.

While the recipe is designed for chicken, you can experiment with pork, such as pork chops or pork tenderloin. However, pork may not absorb the flavors in the same way that chicken does, so the final result might taste different. If you try pork, make sure to adjust cooking times depending on the thickness of the cut.

To add some heat to the Skillet Apple Cider Chicken, you can incorporate ingredients like red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a small finely chopped jalapeño into the sauce. Add them along with the onions to infuse the flavors into the dish. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference.

Yes, you can make the Skillet Apple Cider Chicken ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the point where you add the butter and pour the sauce over the chicken. Once it's cooked, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add the butter just before serving to finish the sauce.

Comments

Scott Harris

05/09/2024 12:10:31 AM

On 10.13.19, I found the recipe called for too much liquid with four cups, so I reduced it to 1-1/2 cups of chicken broth and apple cider each. To enhance the flavors, I doubled the amounts of sage and thyme since fresh herbs are less intense than dried. Using Honeycrisp apples maintained their shape nicely, and I crumbled the bacon, even though the recipe didn’t specify what to do with it. The chicken turned out tender and juicy, and the pan sauce was exceptionally delicious.

Jose Carter

06/02/2024 07:14:23 PM

Review Rewritten: I really enjoyed this recipe. I followed it using thighs as suggested (4 boneless skinless thighs were enough for my husband and me), and I must say I prefer them over breasts. Taking into account other reviews, I reduced the amount of liquid by about half, but in hindsight, I could have added back around 2/3 cup of broth/stock (I found the cider was almost too sweet for my taste). This resulted in needing more sauce at the end, but that was my error. I served the dish over Amish-style egg noodles which was delicious, although a bit tricky to handle them on the plate. Next time, I'll try it over rice for comparison. I didn't have fresh sage or thyme, so I used poultry seasoning instead. I felt it needed more earthy and herbal notes to counterbalance the sweetness of the cider/apples, which I believe the fresh herbs would have provided. Despite these adjustments, we will definitely make this again with a few modifications to better suit our preferences. It's a lovely fall dish!

Matthew Martinez

11/25/2022 04:16:05 PM

I absolutely adored this dish! I made a few adjustments by using boneless chicken breast instead of bone-in, but otherwise stuck to the recipe. After reading some comments, I made sure to let the sauce simmer down before adding the butter, which worked out perfectly. A happy accident resulted in extra-crispy bacon, but it actually added a fantastic texture and flavor to the sauce. Serving it over rice was a brilliant choice, and even the leftovers reheated beautifully in the microwave. I will definitely be making this again!

William Wright

05/23/2024 06:33:48 AM

The whole family enjoyed this dish. I didn't have fresh spices on hand, so I substituted with 1/2 teaspoon of ground sage and 1/4 teaspoon of ground thyme. ***

Anthony Ramirez

12/01/2024 06:41:21 AM

My family absolutely loved this dish! I discovered I didn't have sage on hand, but decided to proceed without it, fearing it might turn out bland. To my surprise, it turned out fantastic regardless. I question whether those who complained about too much liquid followed the instructions to reduce it properly. By doing so, the sauce thickened just right, allowing for the perfect consistency when adding the remaining liquid and simmering with the chicken. To cut down on calories, I used half the amount of butter and served it over brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce, resulting in a delicious combination. There was certainly no excess liquid, and this recipe is definitely a keeper. I'm looking forward to trying it again with the sage next time. Though I used thighs as recommended, I believe it would work just as well with chicken breasts. Thank you!

Thomas Wright

07/18/2024 01:55:55 PM

My family really enjoyed it. The dish was quite easy to make. Due to the freezing weather outside, I opted for bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless and skinless ones. I followed the recipe step by step and put the chicken in the oven for the final cooking. It turned out delicious.

Kenneth Robinson

02/04/2024 12:53:37 AM

Our family really enjoyed this dish. The consistency was a bit too liquidy for our taste, so next time I plan to use just 1 cup of stock and 1 cup of apple cider. Regarding another reviewer's comment about too much Apple Cider VINEGAR in the recipe, they must have made a mistake as this recipe does not call for any vinegar. Using AC Vinegar instead of Apple Cider would certainly explain their experience.

William Brown

04/14/2023 09:37:44 PM

This dish turned out amazing! I only had chicken breasts on hand, so I skipped some of the bacon grease (which I regret and won't do next time). I also omitted the butter (thankfully, considering the bacon grease situation) and used Basmati rice instead of noodles. Using fresh herbs from my garden made a noticeable difference. The dish was incredibly aromatic and had a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. Overall, the flavors were simply outstanding. Thank you for this wonderful recipe.

Stephen Young

11/06/2023 05:18:28 PM

Delicious! My family cannot eat bacon, so I omitted it, but I still found the dish to be just as tasty. I concur with other reviewers that there was too much liquid, so I recommend reducing the amount by half. For using dried herbs, I suggest adding about half a teaspoon of sage and a quarter to half a teaspoon of thyme. The end result was yummy!

Nancy Thompson

05/14/2024 01:26:06 PM

The recipe has an excessive amount of apple cider vinegar. I recommend reducing it by half. Other than that, it was quite enjoyable.

Catherine Taylor

06/16/2023 01:00:33 AM

The dish was mediocre. I doubt I'll attempt it in the future. The consistency was too thin for my liking; I wished the sauce had thickened more. Despite my efforts, it didn't come together. The chicken was flavorful, but the sauce lacked taste.

Michelle Mitchell

05/04/2023 11:46:23 PM

This dish is incredibly scrumptious. While it may take a bit of time to prepare, the end result is truly worth it. I would definitely recommend serving this for a holiday meal. The flavors are delightful. I made it with dried herbs since that's all I had, and it turned out great.

Sandra Gomez

08/12/2023 11:33:16 PM

Created using rice and resulted in a delightful dish. The chicken was incredibly tender despite the absence of butter.

Benjamin Moore

01/19/2024 10:09:47 AM

Took a bit of time to prepare, but I opted for boneless chicken breast instead of bone-in to shorten the cooking time.

Jacob Baker

02/04/2023 08:33:24 AM

This recipe is fantastic and I will definitely be making it again.

John Hill

11/05/2023 10:20:16 AM

This dish was amazing and my kids absolutely adored it! I did experiment by using pork chops instead of chicken, hoping for a similar result, but unfortunately, the pork didn't absorb much of the flavor. For best results, I recommend sticking with chicken when making this recipe!

Pamela Williams

07/10/2024 11:02:07 AM

I followed the recipe instructions precisely and I wouldn't choose to make it again. It wasn't terrible, but it also wasn't fantastic. The chicken was alright, but the sauce was strange and turned out more like a soup than a sauce.

Rebecca Sanchez

10/26/2024 04:03:54 PM

I didn't include the sage and thyme, but it still turned out delicious. My family absolutely enjoyed it. All the ingredients worked together perfectly.

Kelly Rivera

09/25/2023 10:20:37 AM

It was fantastic! Next time, I plan to crumble the bacon and chop the apples for an even tastier result. Overall, it was delicious!

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