Name: Skillet Apple Cider Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1 cup apple cider; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp apple cider vinegar; 2 apples, cored and sliced

Skillet apple cider chicken is one of those cozy meals I love making when I want big flavor without a lot of effort. I really enjoy how the savory chicken pairs with the slightly sweet apple cider sauce, creating a dish that feels comforting but still fresh. It’s a simple one-pan meal that always smells incredible while it cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it comes together in a single skillet and feels special without being complicated. I like how the sauce reduces into something rich and glossy while the chicken stays juicy. It’s also a great option when I want a dinner that feels seasonal and comforting but still works any time of year.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
salt
black pepper
olive oil
butter
garlic, minced
fresh thyme or dried thyme
apple cider
chicken broth
dijon mustard
apple cider vinegar
apples, sliced

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. I heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet, then sear the chicken until golden on both sides. I remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, I add garlic and thyme and cook briefly until fragrant. I pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, mustard, and apple cider vinegar, scraping up any browned bits. I let the sauce simmer and reduce slightly, then add the apples and return the chicken to the skillet. I cover and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens nicely.

Servings and Timing

I usually make this recipe to serve 4 people.
Preparation time: about 10 minutes
Cooking time: about 25 minutes
Total time: approximately 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add onions or shallots for extra depth of flavor. When I want a creamier sauce, I stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end. I also enjoy adding rosemary instead of thyme for a slightly different herbal note. For a touch of sweetness, I occasionally drizzle in a bit of honey.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little broth or cider if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

I use either, but I keep a close eye on chicken breasts so they don’t dry out.

What kind of apple cider should I use?

I like using fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor, but clear apple cider works too.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I do sometimes, and the flavors deepen nicely after a day in the fridge.

What apples work best in this recipe?

I prefer firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith because they hold their shape while cooking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

I skip the butter and use all olive oil to keep it completely dairy-free.

Conclusion

Skillet apple cider chicken is one of my favorite dinners when I want something cozy, flavorful, and easy to clean up. I love how the sauce brings everything together in one pan, making this a reliable recipe I can turn to again and again.