What’s the difference between creamy apple cider chicken thighs and breasts?

Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner. Both work well depending on your preference.

How do I make creamy apple cider chicken without wine?

This recipe uses apple cider as the acidic base, replacing wine completely while adding natural sweetness and depth.

What makes a good creamy apple cider chicken recipe?

Balanced flavors — tangy cider, rich cream, and well-seasoned chicken — make the best version.

Can I make creamy apple cider chicken in a crockpot or oven?

Yes! Sear the chicken first, then cook it low and slow in a crockpot with cider and cream, or bake at 375°F until tender.

Creamy Apple Cider Chicken Skillet – The Best Fall Comfort Dinner

Name: Creamy Apple Cider Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts or thighs; 1 cup apple cider; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 shallot, diced; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp thyme, fresh; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

This Creamy Apple Cider Chicken Skillet is the ultimate cozy fall dinner! Juicy chicken breasts or thighs are simmered in a velvety apple cider cream sauce infused with garlic, thyme, and Dijon mustard. Ready in under 35 minutes, it’s a simple one-pan recipe full of rich, seasonal flavor — perfect for busy weeknights or comforting weekend meals.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, diced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: thin apple slices and fresh thyme sprigs

Instructions

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic and shallots for 1–2 minutes. Pour in apple cider, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer until the liquid reduces by half.
Add Cream & Mustard: Lower heat and stir in Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine & Simmer: Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is creamy.
Serve: Garnish with thyme and optional apple slices. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream.

Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

Add sliced apples or spinach for more texture and nutrients.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner / Main Course
Method: Skillet / Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 540 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 33 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: creamy apple cider chicken skillet, apple cider chicken, fall chicken recipe, creamy chicken recipe, one-pan chicken dinner, comfort food skillet, apple cider sauce chicken