Cider Glazed Chicken is the perfect recipe when you’re craving something tender, flavorful, and simple to prepare.
Hi, I’m Jack welcome to my kitchen! I’m the recipe developer, food enthusiast, and the heart behind Cooks Foody. Like you, I’ve struggled with dry chicken and bland marinades. That’s why I created this dish: it’s juicy, balanced with a touch of natural sweetness, and guaranteed to impress whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast.
Over the years, I’ve refined my cooking skills to make everyday meals extraordinary, and today I’m sharing one of my favorites. In this guide, you’ll learn why this recipe works, how to choose the right cuts, step-by-step cooking instructions, flavor variations, and pro tips for success.
Why This Meat Recipe Works: Cider Glazed Chicken
- Uses affordable, easy-to-find cuts of chicken
- Marinate in just 15 minutes for maximum tenderness
- Perfect for weeknights or weekend family gatherings
- Balanced sweet and savory flavor with a golden glaze
Choosing the Right Meat for Cider Glazed Chicken
Best Cuts for This Recipe
For the juiciest Cider Glazed Chicken, chicken thighs are the best choice they retain moisture and soak up the glaze beautifully. However, chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat, just be careful not to overcook them.
Buying Tips
Choose chicken that’s fresh, firm, and pink in color. If possible, buy skin-on cuts for a richer flavor and a crispier finish.
Substitutions
If chicken thighs aren’t available, you can use chicken drumsticks. They hold the glaze well and make for a rustic, family-style presentation.
Ingredients & Prep for Cider Glazed Chicken
Meat Prep Essentials
Trim excess fat and pat the chicken dry before seasoning. Bringing the chicken to room temperature before cooking helps ensure even results.
Marinades/Rubs
Cider Glazed Chicken Marinade:
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Pantry Staples
Keep olive oil, honey, apple cider, garlic, and fresh herbs stocked they’re the backbone of this glaze.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cider Glazed Chicken
Pre-Cooking Prep for Cider Glazed Chicken
Pat chicken dry, season generously with salt and pepper, and bring to room temperature for 15 minutes.
Cooking Method for Cider Glazed Chicken
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat an oven-safe skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken skin-side down for 3–4 minutes until golden.
- Flip, pour in the cider glaze, and transfer to the oven.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes until cooked through.
Doneness Check for Cider Glazed Chicken
Use a meat thermometer chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Resting for Cider Glazed Chicken
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving so the juices redistribute perfectly.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Meat with Cider Glazed Chicken
Avoiding Tough/Dry Meat
Don’t overcook remove from oven as soon as the thermometer hits 165°F.
Tool Recommendations for Cider Glazed Chicken
Use a cast-iron skillet for even browning and a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating for Cider Glazed Chicken
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven with a splash of cider to keep moisture.
Flavor Variations for Cider Glazed Chicken
| Variation | Flavor Twist | How to Do It |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Twist | Smoky Heat | Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze |
| Keto/Paleo | Low Sugar | Use sugar-free honey substitute |
| Global Flavors | Cultural Inspirations | Add soy sauce & ginger for Asian flair, or rosemary & lemon for Mediterranean taste |
Serving Suggestions for Cider Glazed Chicken
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or wild rice.
- Add a fresh green salad to balance the rich glaze.
FAQs: Cider Glazed Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
How do I fix overcooked chicken?
Slice it thin and drizzle extra glaze over the top for added moisture.
Is this recipe safe for pregnant women?
Yes, as long as the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s perfectly safe.
Conclusion
Fire up your skillet and try this Cider Glazed Chicken tonight! It’s the sweet and savory meal your family will request again and again.
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Cider Glazed Chicken 5 Sweet & Savory Reasons You’ll Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cider Glazed Chicken is a sweet and savory recipe made with apple cider, honey, and herbs for a juicy, flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts
1/2 cup apple cider
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp thyme
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat chicken dry and season with salt & pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sear chicken skin-side down 3–4 minutes.
4. Flip chicken, pour cider glaze over top.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and roast 20–25 minutes.
6. Check doneness at 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest chicken for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can substitute chicken drumsticks for a rustic version.
For extra flavor, marinate up to 2 hours before cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken piece
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Cider Glazed Chicken, chicken dinner, glazed chicken