Apple-Glazed Chicken Thighs : A Fall Dinner Everyone Will Love
/Apple Glazed Chicken Thighs are a delicious and unique spin on the traditional chicken meal. This savory dish features tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy apple glaze. Combining traditional, simple ingredients such as chicken thighs, apple cider or juice, fresh herbs, and spices, this dish brings a balanced mix of sweet and savory flavors to your dinner table. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this versatile recipe can be paired nicely with the usual good side dishes like roasted vegetables or rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
One Pan Apple Glazed Chicken Thighs offer an easy and convenient way to prepare a delicious dinner without the hassle of multiple dishes. This straightforward recipe combines the juiciness of chicken thighs with a delectable apple glaze for an explosion of flavors. The appeal of a one-pan meal lies in its simplicity, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners where time and cleanup time are extra important. The combination of tangy sweetness from the apples and the richness of well-cooked chicken creates a delightful dish that is sure to please. Once again, you can serve this dish with various sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or seasonal vegetables to create a satisfying meal.
Can I Make This Recipe with Chicken Breasts?
Of course, you can make this Apple Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe with chicken breasts or other cuts if you prefer. Using chicken breasts results in a leaner dish, providing a healthier option without compromising the delicious apple glaze. To adapt the recipe, you must adjust the cooking time, as chicken breasts cook faster than thighs. This helps to avoid drying them out. Ensure that the apple glaze is evenly distributed over the chicken breasts for consistent flavor throughout the dish. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Chicken pairs remarkably well with fruit-based glazes like the apple one. The blend of natural sweetness from apples combined with the savory profile of chicken creates an elevated flavor that can turn an ordinary meal into a feast. It's an excellent option for anyone looking to elevate their everyday chicken meals with a unique recipe.
What Ingredients Do I Need to Make Apple-Glazed Chicken Thighs?
To make Apple Glazed Chicken Thighs, gather a few essential ingredients to create this flavorful dish. You'll need bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for optimal juiciness and flavor. The glaze requires apple cider and apple cider vinegar as the base, while honey or brown sugar adds the necessary sweetness. Spices such as garlic, thyme, and paprika elevate the taste profile. Finally, salt, pepper, and butter are essential for marinating the chicken, ensuring it absorbs maximum flavor before cooking.
What Type of Apples Work Best for the Glaze?
Choosing the right type of apples is critical to creating a balanced and the right flavorful glaze for this type of meal. Tart apple varieties, such as Granny Smith, are recommended for their balanced sweetness and sharpness. Firm apples hold their shape during cooking, adding texture to the glaze. Avoid overly sweet apples like Red Delicious, as they may overpower the other flavors of the dish. Honeycrisp apples are a good choice due to their crisp texture and balanced flavor profile. You can even combine different types of apples to create a more complex and layered glaze flavor. My personal favorite for this meal is to use gala apples, but you can feel free to substitute for any apples you choose.
Can I Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of bone-in for the Apple Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe. Boneless thighs cook faster, so you will need to adjust the cooking times to avoid overcooking them. They are also easier to serve and eat, making them a convenient option. However, it's worth noting that the flavor and moisture retention might be slightly different from bone-in thighs. Ensure the boneless thighs are evenly coated with the apple glaze to maintain a consistent taste throughout the dish.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Apple Glazed Chicken Thighs?
Pairing the Apple Chicken Thighs with the right-side dish can enhance your dining experience. Some recommendations are roasted vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes will complement the sweet and savory glaze. Something creamy like mashed potatoes balance the tangy apple glaze with their smooth texture. A fragrant rice pilaf adds an aromatic component that harmonizes well with the chicken's flavors. However, you can never go wrong with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing, crisp contrast. Looking for something nutty and protein-rich quinoa serves as a healthy, versatile side that pairs deliciously. All of this complement well and you can't go wrong with serving any of them alongside this chicken apple glaze recipe.
Apple Chicken Thighs offer a delightful way to elevate your chicken dinner with minimal effort. By choosing high-quality ingredients, marinating correctly, and pairing with the right side dishes, you can ensure a meal that's both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you opt for a one-pan method or grill for added flavor, this recipe will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Incorporate the unique flavors of apples and perfectly cooked chicken thighs into your next meal, and watch as it transforms an ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience. From busy weeknights to special occasions, Apple Glazed Chicken Thighs are the perfect way to impress and satisfy. Happy cooking!
Apple Glazed Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
6 Servings
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
2 Tbsp salted butter
1 cup apple juice (100% juice)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 medium gala apples
1 chopped shallot
2 tablespoon dark brown sugar
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, I use my 360 cookware stainless steel pan.
2. While pan is heating rinse and pat dry chicken thighs. Make sure to remove any excess moisture to get a crisp edge on the chicken.
3. Mix together sea salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder and paprika in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning over chicken on both sides until evenly seasoned.
4. Add butter to hot pan and let melt. Add chicken, be sure not to touch for 5-7 minutes until it is crispy on the side and easily comes up from the pan. If it is sticking it is not ready to flip. Flip over on the other side and do the same. Once cooked for at least 5-7 minutes on both side remove and add to a plate, loosely cover and set aside.
5. Add an additional 2 tablespoons of butter to same pan and work up any browned bits that formed on pan. Add in chopped shallots and let cook until lightened in color.
6. Add in brown sugar and apples. Cooking until apples have softened. Pour in apple juice and let simmer. Stirring for around 5-10 minutes until the liquid begins to thicken. Add chicken back in and coat with a large spoon.
7. Remove from heat and serve chicken, spooning apples and sauce over top. Garnish with fresh thyme is desired.
