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To make Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs, you need a few simple ingredients. These ingredients create a sweet and tangy flavor that enhances the chicken. Here’s what you will need: - 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - 1 cup apple cider - 1/4 cup Dijon mustard - 2 tablespoons brown sugar - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon pepper - 1 tablespoon olive oil Each ingredient plays a key role in building the glaze and seasoning the chicken. The apple cider gives a sweet base, while the Dijon mustard adds a nice zing. Brown sugar enhances the sweetness, and apple cider vinegar adds a tangy note. Fresh garlic brings depth, and thyme introduces an herby taste. Salt and pepper help balance all the flavors, while olive oil is great for searing the chicken, ensuring a crispy skin. Gather all these ingredients before you start cooking. This will make the process smooth and enjoyable! First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for cooking the chicken evenly. As the oven heats, gather your ingredients. Having everything ready makes cooking easier. In a medium bowl, combine these ingredients: - 1 cup apple cider - 1/4 cup Dijon mustard - 2 tablespoons brown sugar - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon pepper Whisk these well until smooth. This glaze will give the chicken a sweet and tangy flavor. Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with a pinch of salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, place the chicken skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes. You want the skin to be crispy and golden brown. Now, flip the chicken thighs over. Pour the apple cider glaze over them, coating each piece well. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with the glaze for extra flavor. Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside, making the chicken juicy and tender. To get that perfect crispy skin on your chicken thighs, start by using bone-in, skin-on pieces. The skin needs fat to crisp up nicely. Sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet, skin-side down. This step is key. Cook for 5-7 minutes without moving them. You want that skin to turn golden brown. Once you flip the chicken, pour the glaze over it. This helps keep the skin crispy while adding flavor. Apple cider glazed chicken pairs well with many sides. Try serving it with roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts. A creamy mashed potato or wild rice also works great. For a fresh touch, add a simple salad with mixed greens. The bright flavors balance the sweet glaze. You can also serve it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the extra glaze. A few common mistakes can ruin your dish. First, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s not, the skin won't crisp up. Second, don’t skip basting the chicken halfway through cooking. This adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist. Lastly, allow the chicken to rest after baking. This lets the juices settle, making every bite juicy and tender. {{image_2}} You can enhance the flavor of your apple cider glazed chicken by adding more herbs and spices. Consider using rosemary, sage, or parsley. These herbs bring fresh notes that balance the sweetness of the glaze. You can also try adding spices like cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for depth. Just a pinch can make a big difference! If you want to change up the sweetness, there are options. Honey or maple syrup work great as substitutes for brown sugar. They add unique flavors while keeping the glaze sticky and sweet. If you prefer a low-calorie option, try stevia or agave syrup. Just adjust the amount to taste, as sweetness levels vary. This recipe is not limited to thighs. You can use chicken breasts or drumsticks too. Just remember that different cuts may need different cooking times. Drumsticks might take a bit longer, while breasts cook faster. Always check the internal temperature to ensure your chicken is safe to eat, aiming for 165°F (75°C). Enjoy experimenting with your favorite cuts! To store your leftover apple cider glazed chicken thighs, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to let the chicken cool down first. Keep the container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you have extra glaze, store it in a separate container. This way, you can enjoy that sweet sauce again! When you're ready to eat the leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. If you want, you can warm up the glaze on the stove. Pour it over the chicken before serving for extra flavor. If you want to save the chicken for later, freezing works well. Wrap each thigh tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To thaw, move the chicken to the fridge overnight. This keeps it safe and tasty. When ready, reheat as described above. Enjoy your meal even after it’s been frozen! Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They will cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust your cooking time to about 20 minutes in the oven. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. If you don't have apple cider, try using apple juice or a mix of water and vinegar. This will keep the sweet, tangy flavor close to the original. You can also use white wine for a different twist. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the chicken. Yes, you can. Start by searing the chicken in a skillet. Then transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Pour the glaze over it and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This method will make the chicken very tender. Many sides work well. Here are some great options: - Roasted vegetables - Mashed potatoes - Green salad - Rice pilaf - Steamed green beans These sides will enhance the meal and balance the sweet flavors of the chicken. You’ve learned how to make apple cider glazed chicken thighs from start to finish. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking tips, and tasty variations. Remember, crispy skin and great sides can elevate your dish. Always explore new herbs and spices for unique flavors. Store leftovers properly and reheat for best taste. I hope you feel confident making this dish. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors that make this meal special.

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs

Savor the flavors of fall with this delicious Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe! Juicy chicken thighs are beautifully seared and coated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze that will impress your friends and family. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these glazed thighs are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Click to explore the full recipe and elevate your dinner table tonight!
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Ingredients
  

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1 cup apple cider

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.

      Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

        Season the chicken thighs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden.

          Flip the chicken thighs over and pour the apple cider glaze over them.

            Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

              Baste the chicken with the glaze halfway through cooking for added flavor.

                Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the glazed chicken on a large platter, spooning extra glaze over the chicken and garnishing with fresh thyme sprigs and apple slices for a beautiful fall-inspired dish.