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Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Thighs with Warm Spices

Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Thighs with Warm Spices
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Juicy and flavorful Skillet Apple Cider Chicken Thighs cooked in a single pan with warm autumn spices, tangy apple cider, and fresh herbs. This comforting dish offers tender, crispy-skinned chicken simmered in a sweet and savory spiced sauce, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Aromatics & Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (gluten-free)
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary

Optional

  • 1 medium apple, thinly sliced (e.g., Granny Smith or Fuji)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to infuse warm spices into the meat.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and translucent, building a rich flavor base.
  4. Add Apple Cider and Spices: Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth. Stir in ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix gently and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Return Chicken and Simmer: Place the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs. Cover loosely and let the chicken simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  6. Optional Apple Slices: During the final 10 minutes of cooking, nestle thinly sliced apples into the sauce to soften and absorb the warm spices, enhancing the flavor and texture.
  7. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, discard herb stems, and spoon the spiced cider sauce over the chicken. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken thoroughly before searing to ensure crispy skin.
  • Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for juicier and more flavorful results.
  • Simmer gently after adding liquids to keep meat tender and juicy.
  • Season the chicken first, then adjust seasoning in the sauce as needed.
  • Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.
  • For a different flavor profile, substitute nutmeg and cloves with ground ginger or star anise.
  • Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness, if desired.
  • Use gluten-free chicken broth to keep the recipe gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider chicken, skillet chicken thighs, warm spices chicken, fall recipes, one-pan dinner, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/skillet-apple-cider-chicken-thighs-with-warm-spices/