1-Pan Apple Cider Chicken (Quick & Easy)

Name: 1-Pan Apple Cider Chicken (Quick & Easy)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 cup apple cider; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the delightful combination of tender chicken and sweet apple cider in this one-pan recipe. Perfectly spiced and quick to prepare, this dish brings a touch of fall flavors to your family dinner, making it a comforting and effortless meal option any night of the week. Ideal for busy cooks who love delicious and simple recipes!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2025-11-26T13:19:59.934Z

This 1-Pan Apple Cider Chicken recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider, making for a deliciously easy dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation
One-pan cleanup
Perfectly balanced flavors
Great for weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Fall Meal

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, nothing invites the essence of fall into your kitchen quite like this 1-Pan Apple Cider Chicken. This dish captures the warmth of autumn with its sweet and tangy apple cider base, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings. The seasonal flavors not only satisfy the palate but also bring a comforting atmosphere to family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Using just a few simple ingredients, this recipe transforms everyday chicken into a gourmet experience. The combination of apple cider with tender chicken allows for a delightful sweetness that beautifully contrasts with savory spices. As the cider simmers, it infuses the chicken with unique flavors that resonate with the essence of fall. It’s a dish that celebrates the season while being quick enough for any busy weeknight.

One-Pan Convenience

In today's fast-paced world, convenience in cooking is key. That's why this one-pan recipe is a lifesaver for busy families. With minimal cleanup and all cooking done in a single pan, you can spend more quality time with your loved ones without sacrificing a delicious meal. After a long day, there’s nothing better than putting together a meal that’s quick and hassle-free while still impressing everyone at the table.

The simplicity of this recipe lies not only in the cooking process but also in its ingredient list. You can easily swap out the chicken for other proteins like turkey or pork to mix things up based on preference or availability. Additionally, the apple cider can be substituted with different fruit juices for those looking to switch flavors. The adaptability of this recipe makes it truly versatile and a staple for any home cook.

Serving Suggestions

To truly enhance your 1-Pan Apple Cider Chicken experience, consider pairing it with sides that complement its rich and sweet flavors. Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, provide a wonderful contrast and bring a colorful element to your plate. Additionally, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice can soak up the delectable cider sauce, making every bite just as delicious as the last.

For a refreshing twist, serve a light side salad with mixed greens, apple slices, and a tangy vinaigrette. This will balance the richness of the chicken and add a refreshing crunch to the meal. Don’t forget to enjoy it with a glass of cider or a light white wine to elevate your dining experience further. These simple additions will ensure your dinner is not just a meal but a delightful occasion.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before getting started:

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 cup apple cider
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme for garnish

Make sure you have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your meal:

Prepare Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Sear Chicken

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear on both sides until golden brown.

Add Cider

Pour the apple cider into the pan and bring it to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!

Tips for Cooking Perfect Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken that is juicy and flavorful, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This allows them to cook more uniformly, reducing the chances of overcooking. Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking will help retain its juices, ensuring each bite is tender and succulent.

Using a meat thermometer is a great way to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe for consumption. This is a quick and effective method to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly every time, giving you confidence in your culinary skills.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you're fortunate enough to have leftovers from this delicious dish, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making the leftovers even more enjoyable. For best results, reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of apple cider to maintain moisture and flavor.

You can also freeze the leftovers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes for a quick and easy meal option for those busy weeknights when you don’t have time to cook from scratch.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own version of this recipe. Adding rosemary or sage can give your dish a fragrant twist. For a spicy kick, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the seasoning. Each variation brings a unique profile to the same simple dish, allowing you to customize it based on your taste preferences.

If you prefer a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream towards the end of cooking. This will create a creamy cider sauce that complements the chicken beautifully. With endless variations, you'll find that this recipe can adapt to any occasion, ensuring it remains a family favorite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, thighs or drumsticks work well too, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.