The scent of rosemary and simmering apple cider always takes me back to my nonna’s kitchen, that warm, rustic space where every dish began with a handful of herbs and a lot of heart. I remember watching her stir pots that filled the air with the sweet tang of apples and the earthy scent of fresh rosemary. This Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken recipe is my way of bringing that same warmth to your home. It’s a comforting, simple dinner with fall flavors that remind you why home cooking feels so grounding.
It’s the kind of dish that feels right when the weather cools and you crave something wholesome but elegant. The chicken turns tender, the sauce thickens to a golden glaze, and every bite feels like an embrace from someone who knows just what you need.
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Why You’ll Love This Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that’s quick yet restaurant-worthy, this Apple Cider Chicken delivers. The blend of sweet apple cider, aromatic rosemary, and savory chicken creates layers of flavor that balance beautifully. It’s ready in under an hour, yet it tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.
One of my favorite parts? It’s flexible. Whether you serve it with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or even over wild rice, it pairs perfectly. It’s also naturally dairy-free but still incredibly rich and glossy, thanks to the cider reduction.
If you love the comforting sweetness of fall recipes, you might also enjoy my Creamy Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs, another hearty, flavor-packed dinner for chilly evenings.
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Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken
A cozy and flavorful Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken recipe; tender chicken simmered in a sweet cider glaze with fresh rosemary, garlic, and honey. Perfect for fall dinners.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
4 boneless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper, and sear in olive oil for 4–5 minutes per side until golden.
2. Remove chicken and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Pour in apple cider, Dijon mustard, honey, and rosemary sprigs; bring to a simmer.
4. Return chicken to the pan and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes until sauce thickens into a glaze.
5. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve warm with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Notes
Use sweet apple cider (not vinegar) for the right flavor balance.
Bone-in chicken adds tenderness and depth.
Add sliced apples or shallots for a rustic twist.
Pairs beautifully with rosemary garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Ingredients
Gathering everything beforehand makes cooking this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken simple and fun. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs or breasts | 4 pieces |
| Apple cider (not vinegar) | 1 cup |
| Fresh rosemary | 2 sprigs |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
You can pair it beautifully with my Roasted Autumn Vegetable Pot Pie for a full, comforting fall meal.
How to Make this Apple Cider Chicken Recipe
- Sear the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear each side for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add apple cider, Dijon mustard, honey, and rosemary sprigs. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce and Finish: Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. The cider will reduce into a glossy glaze that coats each piece.
- Serve Warm: Garnish with fresh rosemary and a drizzle of the pan sauce.
For another fall-inspired side, try this Apple Cider Cake, it pairs wonderfully with this savory dish.
Tips and Variations
- Use bone-in chicken for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Substitute apple cider with pear juice if you want a slightly different sweetness.
- Add shallots or sliced apples to the pan for a rustic touch.
- If you like a creamier version, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end.
This meal is versatile enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it up to a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the sauce glossy.
2. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of apple cider?
No, vinegar is too acidic. Always use sweet apple cider for the right balance.
3. What should I serve with this dish?
It’s lovely with Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes or roasted root vegetables.
4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4–5 hours, then reduce the sauce uncovered for 10 minutes before serving.
If you’re craving something sweet to follow, try my Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes, they make the perfect pairing.
Final Thoughts
This Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken recipe captures everything that makes fall meals special; comfort, aroma, and simplicity. Each bite feels both nostalgic and new, like something your grandmother might’ve made but with a modern twist. It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or festive gatherings.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
