Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the sweetness of apple cider and the aromatic essence of fresh rosemary. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to impress your family and guests!

Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup apple cider (unsweetened)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1-2 apples (sliced, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Timing

Preparing Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear Chicken: Add the chicken, skin side down, and sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Cook Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the apple cider, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Add the fresh rosemary sprigs (or dried rosemary) and stir to combine.
2. Add Apples: Place the sliced apples into the sauce mixture.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

1. Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin side up.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and tender.

Step 6: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Remove the chicken and apples from the skillet. If desired, reduce the sauce further by simmering uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
2. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the chicken with the apples and sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	380
Protein	28g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	16g
Sugar	8g

Tips for Customization

• Herb Variations: Try adding thyme or sage for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Additions: You can include other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and color.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the sauce.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that beautifully combines savory and sweet elements. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, this recipe will surely become a favorite!

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but adjust the cooking time as they will cook faster.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat it before serving. It may taste even better the next day!

What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.