Name: Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 Bone-In Chicken Thighs; 2 tsp Onion Powder; 2 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Smoked Paprika; 1 tsp Fresh Thyme; 2 tbsps Fresh Rosemary, chopped; 1 Red Onion, sliced; 1-2 Honeycrisp Apples, sliced; 4 tbsps Salted Butter; 3/4 cup Apple Cider; 1/2 cup Chicken Broth; 2 tbsps Dijon Mustard; 3 cloves Garlic, minced; Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper

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There’s something undeniably cozy about the aroma of a warm roast chicken filling the kitchen, especially as the chilly autumn air settles in. The Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe perfectly captures those delightful fall flavors, bringing the comforting sweetness of apples and the earthiness of rosemary together in a succulent dish that’s perfect for any family dinner or weekend gathering. Picture yourself serving a plate of golden-brown chicken drizzled with a rich, buttery sauce, accompanied by warm sides, and you’ll understand why this dish deserves a special spot in your recipe collection.

What Makes This Special

You’re going to love the Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe for its delightful blend of flavors and ease of preparation. Here are just a few reasons why it’s sure to become one of your favorites:

A perfect balance of sweet and savory tastes
Hearty and satisfying while remaining healthy
Simple enough for weeknight meals, yet impressive for entertaining
Uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up anytime

Gather These Ingredients

For the Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe, the ingredients play a significant role in creating the dish’s warm, comforting essence. You can easily swap in turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner touch, and use chicken thighs for an incredibly juicy finish. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish come to life:

4 Bone-In Chicken Thighs
Spices: 2 tsp Onion Powder, 2 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Smoked Paprika, 1 tsp Fresh Thyme, 2 tbsps Fresh Rosemary, chopped
1 Red Onion, sliced
1-2 Honeycrisp Apples, sliced
Sauce: 4 tbsps Salted Butter, 3/4 cup Apple Cider, 1/2 cup Chicken Broth, 2 tbsps Dijon Mustard, 3 cloves Garlic, minced
Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper

Having these ingredients on hand will ensure a deliciously flavorful meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

How to Cook Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

Creating this delightful dish is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal:

Preheat your oven to 425°F, setting the stage for a perfectly cooked chicken.
Season the chicken thighs generously with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper. Allowing these flavors to infuse the meat is key for a delicious outcome.
In an oven-safe skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs, searing each side until golden brown, around 5-7 minutes.
Add the sliced red onion and honeycrisp apples around the chicken in the skillet. As they cook, they’ll soften and release their sweet juices, enriching the flavors of the chicken.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is cooked through.
Remove the chicken and apples from the skillet and set aside. On the stovetop, add the butter, apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic to the same skillet. Whisk together, allowing it to bubble and thicken slightly.
Return the chicken and apples to the skillet, spooning the thickened sauce over them to soak in all the delicious flavors.
Serve warm, perhaps alongside your favorite sides.

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 30 minutes, Total ~ 45 minutes, Servings ~ 4, Kcal ~ 450 (estimate).

Plan Ahead

Preparing parts of the Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken in advance can make your meal even easier. You can season the chicken and slice the onions and apples a day ahead, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, simply assemble and cook, ensuring maximum flavor with minimal effort.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers from the Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe can be stored easily, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish multiple times. Store any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain its moisture. When the chicken feels warm throughout and is no longer cold in the center, you’re good to go!

What Goes Well with Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complement your Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken:

Creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting mash-up
Roasted Brussels sprouts for a crunchy contrast
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness
Quinoa or wild rice for a hearty grain option
Sautéed green beans for a fresh, vibrant side

Variations and Swaps

Feel free to customize the Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe to suit your taste! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Swap out bone-in chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Use different fruits like pears or even cranberries for a unique spin on the dish.
Incorporate different root vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and color.
Try adding a hint of spice with some red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
For a gluten-free sauce, always double-check your Dijon mustard and broth labels; many brands are gluten-free.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To get the best results with your Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken, keep these tips in mind:

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at the thickest part of the chicken (165°F).
Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken for optimal searing.
Leave enough space between the chicken and the pan’s edge to allow for even cooking.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they remain juicy and cooked through.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?
Searing the chicken adds a lovely golden crust that enhances flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs in a pinch, but remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh.
Can I make the sauce without butter?
Absolutely! You can substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option.
How do I know the chicken is done cooking?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, ensure the juices run clear when pierced.

Final Thoughts

The Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe radiates warmth and delicious flavors that make it an ideal choice for cozy dinners with family and friends. With its easy preparation and comforting taste, you’ll find that it’s perfect for any occasion, be it a weeknight meal or a special gathering. You’ll want to keep this dish in your recipe lineup, ensuring it becomes a go-to for years to come. So why not whip it up soon and fill your home with its delightful aromas? Happy cooking!

Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting dish that combines sweet honeycrisp apples and earthy rosemary with succulent chicken thighs, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Season the chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper.
In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Add sliced red onion and honeycrisp apples around the chicken in the skillet.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Remove chicken and apples from the skillet; on the stovetop, add butter, apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic, whisking until thickened.
Return the chicken and apples to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
Serve warm, accompanied by your favorite sides.