Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

What could be more comforting than a warm, hearty meal as the leaves begin to change color? Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken brings together the sweetness of apple cider with tender chicken, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen, mingling with hints of cinnamon and rosemary, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

As you prepare this dish, memories of crisp autumn days and family gatherings will flood your mind. This recipe is ideal for those chilly evenings when you crave something nourishing yet easy to prepare. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a festive family gathering, this chicken recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to savor the amazing flavor experience that awaits!

Key Ingredients For Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Apple Cider: Opt for fresh, unfiltered apple cider for a richer flavor that enhances the chicken.
• Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions work best in this recipe.
• Fresh Rosemary: Use fresh rosemary sprigs for an aromatic touch that complements the apple cider beautifully.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and pairs perfectly with the apple flavors.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while providing moisture.
• Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy depth that balances the sweetness of apple cider.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Second Step : Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, sauté diced onion until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes. This step lays down a flavorful base for your dish.

Third Step : Create the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine apple cider, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and cinnamon. Stir well until mixed thoroughly. This sweet and tangy sauce will infuse flavor into your chicken.

Fourth Step : Assemble the Dish

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the sauce over them evenly. Add fresh rosemary sprigs on top for extra aroma and flavor.

Fifth Step : Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve your Cozy Fall Feast by transferring to plates and drizzling with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like rosemary enhance flavor significantly compared to dried ones.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce apple cider by half or add more broth.
• Resting Time: Allowing cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain juices.

Presentation Ideas

This Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect side, soaking up the delicious apple cider glaze and adding comfort to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, enhances the dish’s visual appeal while providing a nutritious balance.
• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp green salad with apples, nuts, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

Cooking Tips for Apple Cider Chicken

To achieve the best results when preparing this Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken, keep these tips in mind:

Choosing the right cut of chicken is essential. Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces will yield juicier results. Marinating the chicken in apple cider for a few hours can enhance flavor depth. When cooking, ensure you sear the chicken to create a golden crust before adding liquids. This step locks in moisture.

Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish’s aroma. Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking ensures that juices redistribute throughout the meat.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to customize this Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken, consider these alternative ingredients:

For a healthier option, try using turkey instead of chicken. The cooking time may vary; ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

You can also substitute apple cider with white wine or chicken broth if you prefer a different flavor profile. For added sweetness, include sliced apples or dried fruits during cooking.

Pairing Suggestions

Enhance your dining experience by pairing this Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken with complementary beverages:

A chilled glass of hard cider brings out the apple notes in the dish beautifully. For wine lovers, consider serving a light Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to balance flavors.

If you’re looking for non-alcoholic options, spiced apple cider or sparkling water infused with citrus can refresh your palate between bites.

Storage Tips

To store any leftovers from your Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken properly:

Allow the chicken to cool down completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. When reheating, ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal taste and safety.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook Apple Cider Chicken?

Cooking time for this Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken typically ranges from 45 minutes to 1 hour at 375°F in the oven. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and tenderness.

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead?

Yes! While bone-in pieces are preferred for their juiciness, boneless chicken breasts can work well too. However, reduce cooking time by about 10-15 minutes since boneless options cook faster than bone-in cuts. Keep an eye on them to prevent drying out during cooking.

What sides go well with Apple Cider Chicken?

Serving sides that complement this Cozy Fall Feast: Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken enhances your meal experience. Popular choices include creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. A fresh green salad sprinkled with nuts adds crunch and balances flavors beautifully.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time by marinating the chicken overnight in apple cider for added flavor. Cooked apple cider chicken can also be stored in the fridge for later reheating or even frozen for future meals, ensuring convenience without sacrificing taste!

Print

Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken

• Author: christina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Savor the essence of fall with this Irresistible Apple Cider Chicken. This cozy dish combines tender chicken breasts with the sweet brightness of apple cider, aromatic rosemary, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a warm and inviting meal perfect for family gatherings or quiet nights at home. As it bakes, your kitchen will be filled with an enticing aroma that promises comfort and joy. Get ready for a delicious experience!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup fresh apple cider
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tsp olive oil

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix apple cider, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Place seasoned chicken in the baking dish and pour the sauce over it. Add rosemary sprigs on top.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; then remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

---

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Fresh herbs enhance flavor, so consider using fresh rosemary instead of dried. If you prefer less sweetness, adjust apple cider by half or increase broth. For juicier results, let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.