Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe
In my kitchen, this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken has become a cherished recipe that never fails to impress. The sweet and savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that warms the heart and delights the senses. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish showcases the brand new flavors of autumn with a delightful twist. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be eager to share it with your family and friends!
What Makes This Recipe Special
You’ll love this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special enough for a celebratory dinner. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, tart apples, and fragrant rosemary brings a burst of flavor that everyone will enjoy. It’s also a budget-friendly meal, and leftovers if you have any are delightful!
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Overview
Making Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken is a breeze! You’ll start by seasoning the chicken thighs, searing them for a golden-brown crust, and then roasting them in the oven. While they cook, you’ll create an irresistible sauce to drizzle over the finished dish. Let’s gather our ingredients!
What You’ll Need
- 4-5 Bone-In Chicken Thighs
- Spices:
- 2 tsp Onion Powder
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Fresh Thyme
- 2 tbsp Fresh Rosemary, chopped
- 1 Red Onion, sliced
- 1-2 Honeycrisp Apples, sliced
- Sauce:
- 4 tbsp Salted Butter
- 3/4 cup Apple Cider
- 1/2 cup Chicken Broth or White Wine
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Flavor Note:
Feel free to swap Honeycrisp apples for any other apple variety you prefer, such as Granny Smith for a tart punch or Fuji for sweetness.
How to Prepare It
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
- Once the chicken is crispy, add the sliced onions and apples around the chicken in the pan.
- Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and take out the chicken and apples.
- On the stovetop, add the butter, apple cider, chicken broth (or white wine), Dijon mustard, and minced garlic to the pan. Whisk everything together and cook over medium heat until the sauce starts to thicken.
- Return the chicken and apples to the pan, spoon the sauce over them, and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
How to Serve Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken
For a satisfying meal, plate the chicken thighs with the caramelized apples and drizzled sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. For a heartier option, try serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy quinoa salad. A refreshing glass of cider or a light white wine would complement the flavors beautifully.
Tips for Storing
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken, it’s easy to save any leftovers! Allow them to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you want to enjoy it later, this dish freezes wonderfully; just be sure to seal it well in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the spices and rosemary for a couple of hours before cooking.
- If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reach your desired consistency.
- Enjoy this dish with the skin on for maximum flavor and a deliciously crispy texture.
Flavor Swaps
Feel free to get creative! You can try using different herbs like sage or thyme instead of rosemary for a new flavor profile. For a bit of sweetness, add a drizzle of maple syrup to the sauce or toss in some dried cranberries during the cooking process. If you’re looking to make it lighter, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| per serving | 450 | 34 g | 26 g | 25 g | 2 g | 10 g |
With all these tips and suggestions, I hope you feel inspired to bring this warm and comforting Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken into your home. Happy cooking!
