There’s something unmistakably comforting about Apple Butter Glazed Chicken Thighs, especially here in Lancaster County where apple butter isn’t just a spread — it’s a tradition. Whether you’ve enjoyed it on warm rolls at family dinners or picked up your favorite jar from a local market, apple butter carries a familiar sweetness that instantly feels like home.
This dish brings that tradition to the dinner table in a new way. With crispy‑skinned chicken thighs and a glossy, apple‑infused glaze, it blends warm fall flavors with simple weeknight cooking. Best of all? It comes together in one skillet and under an hour.
If you love meals that look impressive, taste comforting, and use ingredients many Lancaster families keep in their pantry, this one is for you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic PA Dutch flavors meet a modern, savory twist
- Crispy skin + sticky glaze — the perfect combo
- Balanced sweet‑tangy flavor thanks to apple cider vinegar and Dijon
- One‑pan cooking keeps cleanup easy
- Perfect for fall, holidays, or Sunday dinners
Apple Butter Glazed Chicken Thighs (Full Recipe)
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 bone‑in, skin‑on chicken thighs (about 2.5–3 lbs total)
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
Apple Butter Glaze
- ½ cup apple butter
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp melted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional but recommended)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh thyme or parsley
- Thin apple slices
Directions
Prep
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Pat chicken thighs dry for maximum crispiness.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large oven‑safe skillet over medium‑high heat.
- Place chicken skin‑side down and sear 5–7 minutes, until deep golden.
- Flip and cook 2 minutes on the second side.
- Remove skillet from heat.
Make the Apple Butter Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together:
- apple butter
- apple cider vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- melted butter
- garlic
- salt
- crushed red pepper flakes
Glaze & Roast
- Brush half the glaze over the chicken.
- Transfer skillet to the oven; roast 25–30 minutes.
- Internal temp should reach 165°F (175–185°F for extra‑tender thighs).
- Brush with the remaining glaze for the last 5 minutes.
Rest
Let the chicken rest 5 minutes so the juices settle and the glaze sets.
What to Expect
- Texture: Crispy skin, sticky glaze, juicy meat
- Flavor: Sweet apple, tangy vinegar, buttery richness, warm spice
- Appearance: A deep mahogany shine with caramelized edges
This is the meal that makes people lean back in their chairs and say, “Wow, that’s good.”
Variations
Spicy Maple Version
Add:
- 1–2 tsp hot sauce
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
Fall Veggie Sheet Pan
Add to the skillet:
- sliced sweet potatoes
- onion wedges
- apple slices
Roast an extra 10–15 minutes.
Savory Herb Version
Stir into the glaze:
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- ½ tsp rosemary
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Buttered egg noodles
- Fresh green beans
- Warm dinner rolls (for extra glaze!)
Add apple slices or fresh thyme for a simple, elegant finish.
A Cozy Taste of Home
Bringing together the familiar sweetness of apple butter with the comfort of a one‑pan chicken dinner, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed Sundays, or crisp fall evenings. If you enjoy showcasing beloved Lancaster flavors, this dish deserves a place in your rotation.
