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Creamy Apple Cider Chicken Recipe Perfect for Dinner

creamy apple cider chicken - featured image

This Creamy French Apple Cider Chicken Dinner is a comforting yet elegant dish filled with cozy fall flavors and a touch of richness. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and unbelievably delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh, unfiltered apple cider
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 23 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add the chicken breasts.
  3. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the shallots and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the shallots and garlic, stirring frequently to avoid lumps.
  6. Gradually pour in the apple cider, whisking continuously to blend with the flour mixture.
  7. Add the chicken broth and fresh thyme, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  8. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
  9. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 73°C).
  10. Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme for presentation.

Notes

[‘Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to create a better sear.’, ‘Let the sauce thicken naturally by simmering for the best texture.’, ‘If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or apple cider to thin it out.’, ‘Use fresh thyme whenever possible for enhanced flavor.’, ‘If the chicken is overcooked, slice it thinly and let it rest in the sauce to rehydrate.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy chicken, apple cider chicken, French chicken recipe, fall dinner, comfort food