Name: Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 shallot or small yellow onion, thinly sliced; 2–3 fresh rosemary sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1 cup apple cider (non-alcoholic, not vinegar); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon butter (optional); Optional: fresh apple slices and chopped rosemary for garnish

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Rosemary apple cider chicken is a flavorful, aromatic dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh herbs, and the subtle sweetness of apple cider in a beautifully balanced skillet meal. The combination of fragrant rosemary and slightly tangy cider creates a sauce that’s both comforting and elegant—perfect for cool evenings or cozy gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish feels both rustic and refined. The apple cider adds natural sweetness, the rosemary gives it an herbal depth, and the chicken turns out juicy and golden. Everything cooks in one pan, and the sauce reduces into a glossy glaze that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or rice. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but definitely special enough for entertaining. Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Shallots or yellow onion, thinly sliced
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Apple cider (not vinegar)
Dijon mustard
Chicken broth
Butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
Apple slices (optional, for garnish or added sweetness)

Directions

I season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until browned on both sides, about 5–6 minutes per side, then transfer it to a plate.
In the same skillet, I add the shallots and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened.
I stir in the apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and rosemary, scraping up any brown bits from the pan.
I return the chicken to the skillet and reduce the heat to a simmer. I let it cook for 12–15 minutes, uncovered, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce reduces slightly.
Just before serving, I sometimes swirl in a little butter to finish the sauce and make it extra smooth.
I garnish with fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped rosemary for a festive touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

When I want a bit more depth, I add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar for contrast. I’ve also made it with bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor—just increase the simmering time. If I want to turn it into a complete meal, I throw in halved baby potatoes or sliced carrots to simmer in the sauce alongside the chicken.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cider if the sauce has thickened. The flavors deepen after a day, so the leftovers are even better. Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, I’ve used apple juice in a pinch, but I prefer apple cider for its deeper, more complex flavor. Juice is a bit sweeter, so I adjust the Dijon mustard slightly to balance it.

Can I use dried rosemary?

Yes, I’ve used about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary when I don’t have fresh on hand. I add it in early so it has time to soften and release its flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free, as long as I make sure my chicken broth and mustard are labeled gluten-free.

What can I serve this with?

I usually serve it with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Roasted vegetables or a green salad work great on the side.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, and the flavor improves with time. I often make it a day ahead and reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Conclusion

Rosemary apple cider chicken is one of my favorite fall-inspired dishes. The combination of savory herbs and sweet cider creates a warm, comforting meal that always feels a little special. Whether I’m making it for a quiet night in or a casual dinner with friends, it always delivers rich flavor with minimal fuss.