Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw

Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell like fall and your dinner table feel instantly cozy. I love how the sweet-tangy glaze caramelizes on the chicken while the fresh slaw adds that perfect crunch. It’s become my go-to when I want something comforting but still light and vibrant.

I first made this recipe on a cool October evening when I had extra apple cider in the fridge and wanted something different from my usual chicken routine. The combination of sticky, caramelized chicken thighs with a crisp, refreshing autumn slaw was an instant hit with my family. The apple cider reduction creates this beautiful glossy coating that tastes like pure autumn comfort, while the crunchy slaw with fresh apples and herbs keeps everything balanced and bright. This easy fall chicken recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want that seasonal, homemade feel. The best part? Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.

What You’ll Need for This Fall Chicken Dish

I always use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay juicier and the skin gets beautifully crispy under that sticky glaze. You’ll need a large 12-inch skillet to fit all the chicken comfortably and a small saucepan for the glaze. Pro tip: don’t skip patting the chicken dry before cooking, it makes all the difference for achieving that golden, caramelized finish.

For the Chicken and Glaze:

• 6 chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on, patted completely dry)
• 1 cup apple cider (I prefer unfiltered for deeper flavor)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)

For the Crisp Autumn Slaw:

• 2 cups green cabbage (shredded)
• 1 cup carrots (shredded)
• 1 medium apple, preferably Granny Smith (thinly sliced, I keep the skin on for color and texture)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives (chopped)

How to Make Sticky Apple Cider Chicken

I recommend starting with the glaze so it has time to reduce while you prep everything else. This method ensures your sticky apple cider chicken with crisp autumn slaw comes together smoothly without any last-minute rushing.

Step 1: Make the apple cider glaze In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup apple cider, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it bubble gently for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. The color should deepen to a rich amber. Pro tip: Don’t walk away during the last few minutes as it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.

Step 2: Sear the chicken thighs Heat 1 tablespoon cooking oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Season the completely dry chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them skin side down in the hot skillet (you should hear an immediate sizzle). Sear without moving for 5-7 minutes until the skin is deep golden brown and releases easily from the pan. Flip and cook another 5 minutes until nearly cooked through. Watch for any flare-ups from the fat rendering.

Step 3: Glaze and caramelize Reduce heat to medium-low and pour your prepared apple cider glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Use a spoon to baste the chicken continuously, coating each piece with the sticky glaze. Cook for 3-4 minutes, spooning the glaze over repeatedly until it becomes thick, glossy, and clings beautifully to the chicken. The glaze should look almost lacquered. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Step 4: Prepare the autumn slaw While the chicken finishes cooking, combine shredded green cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced apple in a large mixing bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently with your hands or tongs until everything is lightly coated. The dressing should coat the vegetables without pooling at the bottom. Fold in chopped fresh parsley or chives right before serving for maximum brightness and color.

Step 5: Plate and enjoy Let the chicken rest for 3-4 minutes after removing from heat. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps everything moist. Arrange the sticky apple cider chicken thighs on plates with a generous mound of the crisp autumn slaw alongside. Spoon any extra glaze from the pan over the chicken for added shine and flavor.

Perfect Pairings for This Autumn Chicken Recipe

This sticky apple cider chicken with crisp autumn slaw is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. The best sides for sticky apple cider chicken are those that complement the sweet-tangy glaze without competing with it.

Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up that sticky glaze beautifully and add comforting richness that balances the tangy slaw perfectly.

Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized echo the autumn flavors and add earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the apple cider glaze.

Warm Grain Bowls: Quinoa, farro, or wild rice provide nutty texture and wholesome goodness that makes this meal even more satisfying and filling.

Sautéed Green Beans: Simple green beans with garlic add a fresh, crisp element that keeps the meal light while providing a nice color contrast on the plate.

More Delicious Fall-Inspired Dishes to Try

This sticky apple cider chicken pairs beautifully with other seasonal recipes that celebrate autumn’s best flavors. For another apple-inspired main dish, the Christmas Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken offers a festive twist with aromatic herbs that complement the sweet cider glaze perfectly. If you’re looking for comforting sides to serve alongside, try the Sweet Potato Honey Cornbread for a touch of sweetness that echoes the honey in the glaze.

For those who love the crispy-glazed chicken technique, the Best Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles uses a similar caramelization method with savory Asian-inspired flavors. Round out your autumn menu with the Maple Dijon Chicken Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls, which combines maple sweetness with tangy Dijon mustard for another balanced fall meal that the whole family will love.

Keeping Your Chicken Fresh and Delicious

I recommend storing the sticky apple cider chicken and the crisp autumn slaw in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the slaw crunchy and prevents the chicken from getting soggy. Both will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water or apple cider to refresh the glaze. The slaw is best served cold and fresh, so just give it a quick toss before serving.

Pro tip: The chicken freezes beautifully without the slaw. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. Make a fresh batch of slaw when you’re ready to serve for that signature crunch.

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