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Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw

Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw
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Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is a cozy yet fresh fall-inspired dish. Juicy, caramelized chicken thighs are coated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, while a light, crunchy slaw adds brightness and balance. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for family gatherings and seasonal entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken and Glaze

  • 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

  • 1 cup apple cider

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)

For the Crisp Autumn Slaw

  • 2 cups green cabbage, shredded

  • 1 cup carrots, shredded

  • 1 medium apple (Granny Smith recommended), thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • ¼ teaspoon celery seeds

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions

  • Prepare the glaze
    In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook until reduced and thickened, about 8–10 minutes, until the glaze coats the back of a spoon. Set aside.

  • Cook the chicken
    Pat the chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin-side down and sear for 5–7 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes, until nearly cooked through.

  • Glaze the chicken
    Reduce heat to medium-low and pour the apple cider glaze over the chicken. Spoon the glaze over the thighs frequently and cook until the sauce becomes sticky and caramelized, and the chicken is fully cooked.

  • Make the autumn slaw
    In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and sliced apple. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the slaw and toss gently. Stir in fresh parsley or chives just before serving.

  • Serve
    Plate the sticky apple cider chicken alongside a generous portion of crisp autumn slaw. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken well before searing to achieve extra-crispy skin.

  • Reduce the glaze fully so it becomes thick and sticky rather than watery.

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of the glaze.

  • Keep the slaw lightly dressed to preserve crunch and freshness.

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/sticky-apple-cider-chicken-with-crisp-autumn-slaw/