Imagine walking into your kitchen to the irresistible aroma of tender chicken infused with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. The "Applewood Cider Slow Cooker Chicken" is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! With just 15 minutes of prep time and a slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Dive into this delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of American cuisine with the ease of slow cooking, and discover how to create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for your secret!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes better browning.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together apple cider, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. The mixture creates a flavorful braising liquid for the chicken.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Ensure even coverage to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Pour the prepared apple cider mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated and partially submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and moisture.
- After 4 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Reduce the remaining cooking liquid in a saucepan over medium heat to create a thicker, more concentrated sauce for drizzling over the chicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, and pair with roasted vegetables or your preferred side dishes.
Tips
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This simple step helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a nice browning, ensuring maximum flavor.
- Whisk the Sauce Well: Combine your apple cider, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder thoroughly. This mixture is the key to a flavorful braising liquid that will keep your chicken moist and delicious.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Season both sides of the chicken breasts well to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Single Layer Cooking: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the slow cooker for even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to uneven doneness.
- Avoid Lifting the Lid: Keep the lid on during cooking! Lifting it can release heat and moisture, which can affect the cooking time and the final texture of the chicken.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.
- Make a Sauce: For an extra touch, reduce the remaining cooking liquid in a saucepan over medium heat to create a thicker sauce to drizzle over the chicken.
- Garnish for Presentation: Serve your chicken garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an appealing presentation and added flavor.
- Pair Wisely: Complement this dish with roasted vegetables or your favorite side dishes to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 166kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
