![['Juicy skillet apple cider chicken garnished with fresh herbs.', 'Close-up of skillet apple cider chicken featuring apple slices and herbs.', 'Delicious chicken thighs cooked with apple slices and spices in a skillet.', 'Side view of juicy chicken thighs with apple cider reduction and herbs.']](https://smarthealthyrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/skillet-apple-cider-chicken_1_U1.webp)
Skillet Apple Cider Chicken
A flavorful and comforting chicken dish cooked with apples and warm spices, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 0.5 teaspoon ground coriander
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon light or dark brown sugar
- 2 cups apple slices (about 1/4-inch-thick slices, no need to peel)
- 1/3 cup chopped shallots (or yellow onion)
- 1/3 cup apple cider (NOT apple cider vinegar)
Garnish
- optional fresh thyme and rosemary (for garnish)
Instructions
- Mix 3/4 teaspoon salt with spices and sprinkle over chicken.
- Cook chicken in a skillet 5 minutes per side until cooked through, then set aside.
- Add butter, sugar, apples, and shallots; cook until apples soften, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in apple cider and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Return chicken to pan and cook 2 minutes.
- Serve chicken topped with apple mixture and garnish with herbs if desired.
Notes
This dish pairs well with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.