This apple cider glazed chicken breast is sweet, tangy, and totally cozy. The glaze gets sticky and caramelized in the pan, and the chicken stays super juicy. It’s perfect for fall, but honestly? I make it all year long—because it’s that good and that easy.
Why I Love This Recipe
I made this one night when I had a bottle of apple cider in the fridge and zero dinner ideas. I tossed a few pantry staples in a pan and ended up with the most delicious chicken—sticky, golden, and full of sweet flavor with just a little tang. Now I make it whenever I want something simple that still feels a little special.
Why it’s always on repeat in my kitchen:
- 🍎 Sweet + savory combo that’s hard to beat
- 🔥 Cooks in one pan in under 30 minutes
- 👌 Perfect for both weeknights and dinner guests
- 🧈 The cider glaze turns glossy and sticky like magic
- 🧊 Tastes great hot or cold (hello, leftovers)
⏰ Time: 25–30 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 2
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¾ cup apple cider (not vinegar!)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp butter
- Optional: fresh thyme for garnish
How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
1. Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry. Rub with olive oil, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Make the Cider Glaze
Reduce heat to medium. Add apple cider, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir and simmer for 5–7 minutes, until it thickens.
4. Finish with Butter
Stir in butter to make the glaze silky. Spoon the glaze over the chicken and simmer 1–2 more minutes.
5. Slice and Serve
Remove chicken from the pan, slice, and spoon extra glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme if using.
What to Serve With It
This dish goes well with both cozy and fresh sides. Some faves:
- 🥔 Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
- 🥬 Sautéed spinach or green beans
- 🍎 Apple slaw or a crisp green salad
- 🍚 Rice pilaf or quinoa
- 🍞 Crusty bread for soaking up that glaze
FAQ
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of cider?
Nope! You want sweet apple cider, not vinegar—it’ll be too sharp.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! Just adjust the cooking time since they’re a little thicker.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
You sure can! Reheat it gently and stir before serving.
Is the glaze sweet?
It’s sweet and tangy—not sugary, just balanced.
What if I don’t have Dijon?
You can use yellow mustard in a pinch, but Dijon adds the best flavor.
Enjoy!
This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Breast is the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and comforting. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but feels like something special—and that sticky glaze? Totally irresistible. 🍗🍎✨