Why Make This Recipe
Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw is a delightful dish that captures the cozy flavors of fall. This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome for your family. The combination of tender chicken thighs bathed in a sweet and tangy cider marinade, paired with a fresh, crunchy slaw, makes for a dinner that feels special yet is achievable any day of the week. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies and fruits that kids might actually enjoy!

How to Make Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 apple (thinly sliced)
- 1 carrot (shredded)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in a slow cooker and pour the marinade over them. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and deliciously tender.
- For the slaw, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced apple, and shredded carrot in a bowl. In another smaller bowl, mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss this dressing with the cabbage mixture to get everything well-coated.
- Serve the warm, sticky chicken with a generous helping of slaw on the side.
How to Serve Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw
This dish is best served warm, straight from the slow cooker. If you want to make it more fun, let your kids assemble their plates. They can add chicken, slice off pieces, and top it with a nice scoop of slaw. You can also pair it with rice or some crusty bread for a heartier meal. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top can add a nice touch too!
How to Store Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw
Leftovers can be a lifesaver on busy nights! Store any uneaten chicken and slaw in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will last for about 3 to 4 days, while the slaw is best enjoyed within 2 days for freshness. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove, and serve the slaw chilled for a refreshing bite.
Tips to Make Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw
- If you don’t have chicken thighs, you can substitute with chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since breasts cook faster.
- You can thicken the marinade into a sauce on the stove if you prefer a glaze instead of serving it as is!
- For a healthier slaw option, Greek yogurt can be swapped for mayonnaise in the slaw dressing.
- Don’t hesitate to toss in other veggies your family enjoys, such as shredded broccoli or bell peppers, to boost the slaw.
Variation
You can switch things up by adding different fruits to the slaw. Try adding grapes or even some dried cranberries for a sweet twist. For the chicken, consider using turkey thighs if you’d like a lighter protein option.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of chicken?
Yes! You can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just monitor the cooking time as they may vary.
What if I don’t have apple cider?
You can substitute it with apple juice or even broth mixed with a bit of apple cider vinegar to mimic the tangy flavor.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge. This will enhance the flavors.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce, which is gluten-free.
Enjoy making this delightful sticky apple cider chicken and slaw with your family!
Print
Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw
- Total Time: 195
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available
Description
A delightful dish capturing the cozy flavors of fall with tender chicken thighs cooked in a sweet cider marinade, served with a crisp and refreshing slaw.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 apple (thinly sliced)
- 1 carrot (shredded)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in a slow cooker and pour the marinade over them. Cook on low for 360 minutes or high for 180 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and deliciously tender.
- For the slaw, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced apple, and shredded carrot in a bowl. In another smaller bowl, mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss this dressing with the cabbage mixture to get everything well-coated.
- Serve the warm, sticky chicken with a generous helping of slaw on the side.
Notes
Great to serve warm; pair with rice or crusty bread for a heartier meal. You can also add sesame seeds on top for extra flavor!
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 180
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken, apple cider, autumn, slaw, fall flavors, family meal