Pin This Succulent chicken thighs baked with apples and onions, glazed in a spiced apple cider reduction—a cozy, autumn-inspired dish full of warmth and flavor.
I first served this to my family on a chilly fall evening and it quickly became a favorite for its comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Cider Glaze: 1 cup apple cider, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried), ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp ground allspice
- Vegetables & Fruit: 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), cored and sliced, 1 large red onion, sliced, 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Garnish (optional): Fresh thyme sprigs
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs all over with salt and pepper.
- Prepare glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, thyme, cinnamon, and allspice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- Arrange ingredients:
- Arrange apple slices, onion, and garlic in a large baking dish. Nestle chicken thighs on top, skin side up.
- Brush glaze:
- Brush chicken and apples generously with half of the cider glaze.
- Bake first:
- Bake for 25 minutes. Remove from oven and brush with remaining glaze.
- Bake again:
- Continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature at least 165°F/74°C) and skin is golden and crisp.
- Rest and serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm with pan juices.
Pin This Cooking this recipe always brings my family together around the table to share stories and enjoy hearty autumn flavors.
Notes
Pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Required Tools
Large baking dish, small saucepan, basting brush, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains mustard (Dijon). Naturally gluten-free. Double-check labels on mustard and cider for allergens if needed.
Pin This This dish combines sweet and savory notes perfectly and is sure to become a staple in your fall cooking repertoire.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of chicken thighs work best?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal to ensure juicy meat and crispy skin when baked.
- → Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?
Pears can be a great substitute offering a similar sweetness and texture; adjust baking time accordingly.
- → How does the cider glaze enhance the dish?
The cider glaze combines sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors that complement the savory chicken and tender fruit perfectly.
- → What sides pair well with this main dish?
Roasted root vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully to round out the meal.
- → Is it necessary to broil at the end?
Broiling for 2–3 minutes at the end crisps the skin further for added texture but is optional.