Name: Sticky Apple Cider Chicken: Easy Recipe with Crisp Autumn Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 1 cup apple cider; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup diced apples; 1/4 cup carrots, shredded; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

Home

Recipes

Sticky Apple Cider Chicken: Easy Recipe with Crisp Autumn Slaw

Featured in:

Recipes

Ilyana R.

Saturday, November 22, 2025 8:48 pm

Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw

Jump to Recipe

Sticky Apple Cider Chicken: A Delicious Fall Recipe

Why is Sticky Apple Cider Chicken Perfect for Young Professionals?

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, the desire for warm, comforting meals spikes. That’s where sticky apple cider chicken enters the scene—a delightful dish that blends convenience and flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy young professionals.

Let’s face it: after a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe, featuring tender chicken smothered in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, is both quick and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that will impress friends if you’re hosting a dinner party, yet it’s easy enough to whip up on a Wednesday night.

Quick and Healthy Dinner

With the demands of 9-to-5 life, healthy eating can sometimes feel like a chore. Fortunately, sticky apple cider chicken is not just delicious but also a wholesome choice. Chicken is a lean protein packed with nutrients, and when paired with the right ingredients—like fresh apples and a touch of maple syrup—this dish becomes a balanced meal.

Tips for a Swift Process:

Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and measure out the ingredients before you start cooking to save time.
One-Pan Wonder: This recipe can be made in a single skillet, reducing cleanup time—an essential aspect when your evening schedule is packed.
Flavorful Leftovers: Make extra! The flavors only get better as they sit, making for a quick lunch option the next day.

Embrace the Season

One of the reasons to love fall is its bountiful harvest of apples. Incorporating these into your meals not only supports local farmers (check out LocalHarvest for a nearby farmer’s market) but also brings in those seasonal flavors we crave. Cooking dishes that celebrate the season can enhance your overall well-being and mood.

If you’re ready to cozy up with a delicious meal that fits your busy lifestyle, sticky apple cider chicken is the recipe to try. It’s perfect for those crisp autumn evenings, and the leftovers make for tasty quick meals throughout the week. So grab that apple cider, turn on the music, and get cooking—you won’t regret it!

Ingredients for Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

Creating the perfect sticky apple cider chicken is all about the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish that captures the essence of autumn!

Core Ingredients

Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on for richness and moisture.
Turkey bacon: Offers a savory crunch that complements the sweetness of the cider.
Apple cider: Use fresh, unfiltered cider for a robust flavor.
Chicken ham: Adds an extra layer of savory goodness.
Garlic: Freshly minced for that aromatic punch.
Onions: Sweet onions work beautifully to balance flavors.

Seasoning and Extras

Brown sugar: To enhance the sweetness and create that sticky glaze.
Thyme and rosemary: Fresh herbs are always best for vibrant taste.
Chicken broth: For added depth and hydration.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.

When gathering your ingredients, don’t forget to explore local farmers’ markets for fresh produce and cider options—supporting local farms is a great way to enhance your meal while being part of the community! For more tips on sourcing quality ingredients, check out LocalHarvest for nearby options.

Step-by-step Preparation of Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

If you’re looking to bring the flavors of autumn right into your kitchen, there’s nothing quite like sticky apple cider chicken. This dish balances sweet and savory elements perfectly, making it a delight for your taste buds. Let’s break down the preparation of this mouthwatering dish in a step-by-step process that’s both engaging and easy to follow!

Prepare the apple cider glaze

Starting with the glaze is essential for achieving that deliciously sticky finish on your chicken. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients: Gather the following ingredients for the glaze:
1 cup of apple cider
1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon of brown sugar
1 teaspoon of cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the mixture to reduce for about 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. This glaze not only infuses your chicken with a rich flavor but also enhances its visual appeal. If you’re intrigued by cooking techniques, check out this guide on sauces for more tips!

Cook the chicken thighs

Once the glaze has simmered down beautifully, it’s time to focus on the star of the dish: the chicken thighs.

Choosing the Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness. The skin will crisp up nicely, giving you that delightful texture contrast.
Cooking Method:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will elevate the dish immensely.
Place the chicken in the skillet, skin-side down, and sear for about 7-8 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Glaze the chicken to perfection

Now comes the fun part: glazing the chicken!

While the chicken is still in the skillet, pour the apple cider glaze over the seared thighs.
Flip the chicken a few times in the glaze, allowing it to envelop the meat completely.
Let it cook for another 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the glaze to caramelize on the surface. The sticky apple cider chicken will now look and smell irresistible!

Make the crisp autumn slaw

To complement your sticky apple cider chicken, let’s whip up a refreshing autumn slaw.

Ingredients: You’ll need:
2 cups of shredded cabbage
1 cup of grated carrots
1 apple, julienned (a tart variety works best)
¼ cup of apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons of honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and julienned apple. In a small bowl, mix apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour it over the slaw ingredients and toss to combine. This will provide a crisp contrast to the tender chicken.

Plate and serve the dish

With everything ready, it’s time to bring your masterpiece together!

Plating: Place a generous scoop of the autumn slaw on one side of the plate, then arrange the sticky apple cider chicken next to it. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the skillet over the chicken for an added touch.
Garnish: If you like, top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Ready to impress your friends or family? This delightful dish serves beautifully, perfect for those cozy evenings in. Enjoy every bite!

For more delicious fall recipes, check out the Food Network for inspiration and seasonal ideas.

Variations on Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Different Proteins

If you’re craving a twist on the classic sticky apple cider chicken, consider swapping out chicken for other proteins that bring their own unique flavors to the table. Here are some enticing options:

Turkey Bacon: For a smoky, hearty flavor, consider adding turkey bacon. It pairs beautifully with the sweetness of cider, creating a balanced dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Chicken Ham: If you’re looking for something a little different, chicken ham can add a deliciously savory contrast to the sticky glaze. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.
Beef: Want to go bold? Consider using beef strips marinated in your apple cider mix. The robust flavor of beef can hold its own against the sweet and tangy cider sauce, making for a surprising and delightful meal.

Creative Slaw Variations

A crisp slaw can complement your sticky apple cider chicken perfectly. Here’s how to mix it up:

Apple and Cabbage Slaw: Refresh your slaw by adding julienned apples alongside cabbage. This not only heightens the apple flavor but also adds a lovely crunch and bright color.
Carrot-Raisin Slaw: For a sweet twist, add shredded carrots and raisins. Toss in a bit of apple cider vinegar and honey for a tangy dressing that harmonizes with your main dish.
Spicy Greens Slaw: If you enjoy a kick, consider incorporating arugula or radishes for a peppery bite. Drizzle with a spicy vinaigrette to elevate the flavor profile.

With these simple adjustments, you can keep your meals fresh and exciting while enjoying the hearty comfort of sticky apple cider chicken. Whether you’re prepping for a dinner party or a weeknight family feast, these variations will surely impress. For more slaw ideas and chicken tips, check out resources from culinary experts like the Food Network or Serious Eats.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

Creating the perfect Sticky Apple Cider Chicken can be a delightful adventure in your kitchen. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Choose the Right Chicken

You want chicken that cooks evenly. Opt for skin-on thighs for maximum flavor; they stay juicy and absorb the sticky apple cider glaze beautifully. Cooking advice suggests using a meat thermometer to ensure doneness—170°F is the magic number.

Sweeten it Up

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of maple syrup along with your apple cider. It marries wonderfully with the savory notes, creating layers of taste that will impress your dinner guests.

Make it Crisp

While your chicken simmers, prepare a fresh slaw with crisp apples and cabbage. The crunch balances the sticky sweetness perfectly. For an extra kick, toss in some grated ginger or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Savor the Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, they make fantastic sandwiches the next day! Pairing them with Turkey Bacon and crisp greens on a fresh bun is a game-changer.

For more culinary ideas, you can browse resources like The Spruce Eats for additional inspiration!

Serving Suggestions for Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

When it comes to enjoying sticky apple cider chicken, there are countless ways to elevate this dish from delightful to extraordinary. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Accompany with Comforting Sides

Pair your chicken with hearty sides like mashed sweet potatoes or wild rice pilaf. The sweetness of the apple cider glaze beautifully balances savory flavors, creating a satisfying meal that warms the soul.

Enhance with Fresh Salads

Adding a light autumn slaw can bring a nice crunch to your plate. Toss cabbage, apples, and a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. This slaw can also serve as a fabulous leftover option; just layer it in a lunch container for a quick and tasty meal on the go.

Perfect Pairing with Drinks

When selecting a beverage, consider a sparkling apple cider or a spiced herbal tea. These options complement the dish while keeping the autumn vibe alive.

If you’re interested in more creative serving ideas, Food Network has a variety of recipes that can inspire you to make the most out of your sticky apple cider chicken. Embrace this cozy dish, and let your taste buds celebrate the flavors of fall!

Time Breakdown for Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

When you’re preparing the Sticky Apple Cider Chicken, it’s helpful to know the time commitment involved so you can plan your evening perfectly.

Preparation Time

Getting everything prepped for this delicious dish takes about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the chicken and veg, plus mixing up that delightful apple cider glaze. Have all your ingredients ready, and you’ll breeze through this part!

Cooking Time

The cooking process will take around 30 minutes. You’ll be frying, simmering, and giving those flavors a chance to mingle.

Total Time

In all, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels a bit special.

If you’re hungry for more time-saving cooking tips, check out resources from Cooking Light or Serious Eats for quick recipes and meal prep ideas!

Nutritional Facts for Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

When it comes to enjoying Sticky Apple Cider Chicken, knowing its nutritional profile can help you savor each bite guilt-free.

Calories

This delicious dish typically contains around 350 calories per serving. It’s a satisfying option that won’t break your calorie bank.

Protein

Packed with protein, the sticky apple cider chicken provides about 30 grams per serving. This will keep you feeling full and support muscle health, perfect for a busy lifestyle.

Sugar

With a hint of sweetness from the apple cider, you can expect around 10 grams of sugar in each serving. This gives it a delightful glaze without overwhelming your palate.

Feeling curious about the impact of dietary choices? For more personalized nutritional insights, check out the USDA FoodData Central for reliable information. With this recipe, you can enjoy comforting flavors while still keeping your health goals in check!

FAQ about Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While the original recipe for sticky apple cider chicken features chicken thighs for their juiciness, chicken breasts are a fantastic alternative. They will yield a slightly different texture—leaner and perhaps a bit less succulent—but they’ll still soak up that delicious apple cider glaze beautifully. Just remember to monitor the cooking time closely since chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked.

What other sides can I serve with this dish?

The beauty of sticky apple cider chicken lies in its versatility! If you’re looking to complement the dish, consider these side options:

Crisp Autumn Slaw: Already a part of the recipe, this slaw brings crunch and freshness!
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts seasoned with your favorite herbs can elevate your meal.
Quinoa or Rice: A simple grain to soak up the leftover sauce is perfect.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes can add a comforting touch to the meal.

These options not only add variety but also round out your feast nicely.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers from your sticky apple cider chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw, reheat, and savor the flavors!

For more tips on proper food storage, check out resources from the USDA or the CDC. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that beautifully captures the essence of autumn, sticky apple cider chicken is your answer. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with a cozy aroma that invites everyone to the table. Pairing succulent chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce makes for a delightful meal, while the crisp autumn slaw adds a refreshing crunch, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

With its simple preparation and rich taste, this dish can easily become a weeknight favorite. So, why not give it a try? You’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a staple in your autumn menu. For more inspiration, consider checking out seasonal cooking blogs like The Kitchn or Food52 for additional ideas. Happy cooking!