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Apple Cider Smothered Chicken

Apple Cider Smothered Chicken
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Apple Cider Smothered Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a sweet and tangy apple cider-based sauce. This easy-to-make recipe blends pantry staples to create a rich, cozy meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a nutritious balance of lean protein and natural sweetness with versatile serving options.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for dairy-free option)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Additional salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Build the Flavor Base: In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant to create a flavorful foundation for the sauce.
  3. Create the Apple Cider Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic, stirring constantly to toast it lightly. Slowly pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken into a luscious sauce.
  4. Simmer the Chicken in Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and add fresh thyme sprigs. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  5. Final Touches: Remove the thyme sprigs, taste the sauce, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Optionally, finish with a pat of butter for an extra glossy, rich sauce before serving.

Notes

  • Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Allow a good golden crust to develop on the chicken to seal in juices and add flavor.
  • Use fresh apple cider for a brighter, more complex sauce flavor.
  • If the sauce is too thick, thin with a splash of chicken broth; if too thin, simmer a little longer.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
  • For variations, you can substitute chicken thighs, use dairy-free butter alternatives, add vegetables like mushrooms or apples, incorporate spices like red pepper flakes, or use gluten-free flour alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider chicken, smothered chicken, comfort food, quick dinner, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/apple-cider-smothered-chicken/