Cider Glazed Chicken
Cider Glazed Chicken offers a delightful twist on a classic, delivering rich flavors in just 20 minutes. The tender chicken is perfectly complemented by a sweet and tangy cider glaze, making it an easy yet impressive dish.
With a hint of Dijon mustard and the crunch of pecans, this recipe balances savory and sweet notes that are sure to please any palate. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but crave something special.
Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and brightness to this simple, satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, Cider Glazed Chicken is sure to become a favorite.
Cider Glazed Chicken – Ingredients
Tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts serve as the perfect canvas, absorbing the rich, flavorful cider glaze. The unsalted butter adds a silky richness, while a dash of salt and pepper elevates the dish’s savory profile.
The apple cider infuses a natural sweetness, balanced by the tang of Dijon mustard, creating a luscious glaze that clings to the chicken. Chopped pecans bring a delightful crunch, adding texture and a subtle nuttiness.
Finally, fresh flat-leaf parsley offers a burst of color and brightness, rounding out the dish with a touch of freshness.
Cider Glazed Chicken: A Quick & Flavorful Delight
Cider Glazed Chicken is a simple yet sophisticated dish, offering a savory and sweet balance that’s sure to impress. In just 20 minutes, the chicken breasts transform into a deliciously glazed meal with a subtle nuttiness from pecans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is both easy to make and full of flavor. To enhance your experience with this dish, here are a few helpful tips, serving suggestions, and answers to some common questions.
Recipe Tips
- Searing the Chicken for Flavor: To get a golden, crispy exterior on the chicken, make sure your skillet is preheated over medium-high heat before adding the chicken. This helps to lock in the moisture while creating a satisfying crust that enhances the overall flavor.
- Customize the Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter or tangier glaze, adjust the amount of Dijon mustard and apple cider. For a sweeter flavor, add a bit of honey or brown sugar to the cider mixture. If you enjoy a bit more tang, add an extra teaspoon of mustard.
- Pecan Toasting: To bring out the full flavor of the pecans, consider lightly toasting them before adding them to the dish. This can be done quickly in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes. The toasted pecans will provide a deeper, richer flavor, complementing the glaze perfectly.
What to Serve with Cider Glazed Chicken
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food and pair beautifully with the cider glaze. The rich, buttery potatoes balance the savory notes of the chicken while soaking up the delicious glaze, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
- Steamed Asparagus: For a light, fresh side, steamed asparagus offers a slight crunch and earthy flavor that contrasts well with the sweetness of the cider glaze. The natural bitterness of asparagus also helps to cut through the richness of the chicken.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. The acidity from the vinaigrette complements the cider glaze while adding a crisp, fresh element to the meal.
FAQ
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute bone-in chicken for boneless chicken breasts. However, bone-in pieces will require a slightly longer cooking time, around 6-8 minutes per side. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
2. Can I make the cider glaze in advance?
Absolutely! The cider glaze can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat before using it to coat the chicken.
3. What type of apple cider is best for this recipe?
For the best flavor, opt for a fresh, unfiltered apple cider rather than an overly sweet or processed variety. A tart apple cider will provide a nice balance to the sweetness from the mustard and pecans.
4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure that your Dijon mustard and any other condiments or ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Cider Glazed Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 3-4 pounds)
- ½ cup refrigerated apple cider
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt divided
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat until it begins to bubble gently.
- Place the chicken breasts into the skillet, cooking them for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, until the meat is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- To the same skillet, add the apple cider and Dijon mustard. Stir constantly as the mixture simmers for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring each side is evenly coated in the cider glaze. Top the chicken with the chopped pecans, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
