Introduction
Welcome to a delicious seasonal favorite that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall: Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw. Imagine tender, juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, grilled to a beautiful golden brown. Paired with a refreshing slaw that’s bursting with vibrant colors and crunchy textures, this meal is a delightful tribute to the harvest season. It’s not just dinner; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, ideal for cozy nights in with family or friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring they’re well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- If using a skillet, drizzle olive oil in the pan, or brush it onto the grill grates. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the slaw by combining shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion in a large bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture over the slaw and toss until well combined.
- Allow the slaw to sit for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Serve the chicken hot alongside the vibrant autumn slaw, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- This dish also pairs wonderfully with roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Feel free to customize the slaw with your favorite shredded vegetables — kale or brussels sprouts would lend delightful texture.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling and pan-searing are both excellent methods for cooking the chicken, providing that desirable caramelization that adds depth to the dish. Marinating overnight allows the chicken to absorb all the rich flavors, ensuring every bite is a burst of autumn bliss.
FAQ
- Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless? Yes! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- What if I don’t have apple cider? You can substitute it with apple juice, although the flavor will be slightly less complex.
- Can I make the slaw ahead of time? Absolutely! Just wait to dress it until right before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Conclusion
This Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is a celebration of flavors, colors, and the comfort of home-cooked meals. It’s perfect for those beautiful fall evenings when you want something quick yet satisfying. So gather around the table, dig in, and savor every bite of this delightful dish—your taste buds will thank you!