Intro and Brief Recap
What if you could capture the essence of autumn in a single dish? The Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe does exactly that, marrying tender chicken with the fragrant notes of rosemary and the sweet-tart brightness of apple cider. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful balance of flavors, making it the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.
Growing up, my family would often gather around the dinner table as the air turned crisp. This dish became a staple during the fall months, filling our home with its warm aromas. The blend of juicy chicken infused with apple cider and aromatic rosemary was always met with eager anticipation. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe promises to create memories that linger long after the last bite.
Key Ingredients For Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Apple Cider: Choose a high-quality apple cider to enhance the sweetness and depth of flavor in your dish.
Fresh Rosemary: Use fresh rosemary for a more vibrant flavor; dried rosemary can be used in a pinch but won’t be as aromatic.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an essential savory note that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of apple cider.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will help to sear the chicken and add richness to your sauce.
For the Sauce:
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding moisture to your dish.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds a hint of caramel sweetness that balances the acidity of apple cider.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
Second Step: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Third Step: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together apple cider, chicken broth, minced garlic, brown sugar, and chopped fresh rosemary. Stir until well combined.
Fourth Step: Combine Ingredients
Pour the sauce mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet. Ensure that every piece is well coated in this flavorful blend.
Fifth Step: Bake
Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestion: Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh produce like rosemary and high-quality apple cider elevates this dish significantly.
Let It Rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest for about five minutes before slicing helps keep it juicy.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify brown sugar based on your preference; taste before pouring it all in.
By following these guidelines and instructions closely, you’ll create an unforgettable Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Cooking Instructions
To prepare the Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until they are golden brown on both sides. This step adds depth to the flavor.
After searing, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until they become translucent. Then, pour in apple cider and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Return the chicken to the skillet. Add fresh rosemary sprigs, bringing a fragrant aroma that complements the sweetness of the cider. Transfer everything into a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake the chicken for about 30-40 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
Serving Suggestions
This Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Serve it alongside:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables enhance the meal’s nutritional value while adding vibrant colors.
Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of cranberry sauce adds a sweet-tart contrast that beautifully balances the dish.
Nutritional Information
The Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors along with nutritional benefits. Each serving is rich in protein from the chicken and contains healthy fats from olive oil. The use of apple cider provides antioxidants while rosemary contributes additional health benefits. This dish is ideal for those seeking a wholesome meal without sacrificing taste.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers from your Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving again to enjoy its delicious flavors.
FAQs:
What makes this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe special?
This Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe stands out due to its unique blend of savory and sweet flavors.
The combination of fresh rosemary and apple cider creates a delightful balance that elevates ordinary chicken dishes. The process of searing adds richness, while baking ensures tenderness throughout. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also makes use of common ingredients found in most kitchens, making it an accessible yet impressive option for any home cook.
Can I use other herbs in this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe?
You can certainly explore different herbs in this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe.
While rosemary pairs exceptionally well with apple cider, you could substitute thyme or sage if you prefer variations in flavor profiles. Each herb will impart its unique essence, allowing you to customize this dish according to your taste preferences or what you have available at home.
Is this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe suitable for meal prep?
This Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe is indeed great for meal prep!
It’s simple to make in larger quantities and keeps well in both the fridge and freezer. Preparing multiple servings ensures you’ll have delicious meals ready throughout the week without extra cooking time later on. Just portion them into containers after cooling down and enjoy healthy lunches or dinners on busy days.
What side dishes pair well with this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe?
You can complement this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe with various side dishes.
Consider mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh green salad topped with nuts for added crunch. These accompaniments not only enhance flavor but also provide a balanced meal that satisfies both hunger and taste buds alike!
Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the cozy flavors of fall with this Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken Recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in sweet apple cider and aromatic rosemary, creating a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings. This comforting meal combines savory and sweet notes, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a bowl, mix apple cider, chicken broth, garlic, brown sugar, and rosemary until combined.
- Pour the sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
