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Sweet & Tangy Apple Cider Chicken Thighs


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  • Author: Madilyn
  • Total Time: 50 min

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

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

For the 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

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 13×18-inch baking sheet with foil or parchment and lightly grease.
  2. Place chicken thighs on the prepared sheet pan.
  3. 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 over chicken evenly.
  4. Bake for 30 minutes.
  5. While the chicken bakes, make the glaze: melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in 1 tablespoon cornstarch until fully combined.
  6. Stir in 1 cup apple cider, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Whisk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
  7. Remove chicken from oven, brush with glaze, and return to oven for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).
  8. Serve hot with your favorite sides and extra glaze drizzled on top.

Notes

  • Bone-In Option: If using bone-in thighs, add 10–15 minutes to the baking time and check that internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).
  • Make-Ahead: Chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance; glaze can be prepared 1–2 days ahead.
  • Adjust Sweetness: For a less sweet glaze, reduce brown sugar to 1/2 tablespoon or swap with honey or maple syrup.
  • Extra Flavor: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the glaze while it simmers for a more aromatic finish.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 40 min