Description
This Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, boneless skinless chicken thighs baked to perfection and coated in a tangy, sweet apple cider glaze. The combination of Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar creates a flavorful glaze that elevates simple baked chicken into a delightful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Apple Cider Glaze
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 13×18-inch baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it using nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup.
- Arrange chicken thighs: Place the 3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Prepare seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Brush this mixture thoroughly over the chicken thighs to evenly coat them.
- Bake chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the chicken to cook through partially.
- Make the apple cider glaze: While the chicken bakes, melt 2 tablespoons salted butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in 1 tablespoon cornstarch until completely smooth with no white specks remaining.
- Add glaze ingredients: Slowly pour in 1 cup apple cider, then whisk in 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Continue whisking and cook the mixture for about 2 minutes until it thickens into a glossy glaze.
- Glaze and finish baking: Remove the chicken from the oven and brush the apple cider glaze generously over each thigh. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 175°F for safe and juicy results.
- Feel free to use bone-in chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, usually adding 10-15 minutes.
- The glaze can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently before brushing on the chicken.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cider glazed chicken, baked chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, sweet and tangy chicken, weeknight dinner
