Apple Cider and Mustard Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs

This recipe combines tangy apple cider and zesty mustard to create a flavorful marinade that makes the chicken juicy and delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.

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TIME45 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

Apple Cider and Mustard Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 ½ cups apple cider ¼ cup stone-ground mustard 1 teaspoon freeze-dried dill ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 2 pounds skin-on chicken thighs 8 ounces baby carrots ½ medium head cabbage, thinly sliced

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider, mustard, dill, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken thighs in the marinade until they’re fully coated, then cover and pop them in the fridge for about an hour.

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Step 2

When you're ready to cook, fire up your grill to medium-high and give the grate a light oiling to keep things from sticking. Take the chicken out of the fridge and set it aside while you move on to the veggies.

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Step 3

Pour the leftover marinade into a large skillet, add the carrots and cabbage, and bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the veggies simmer gently until the carrots are tender—this should take around 30 minutes.

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Step 4

While the veggies are cooking, put the chicken thighs on the grill. Cook them for about 20 minutes total, turning halfway through, until the meat is no longer pink and the juices run clear. If you have a thermometer, aim for 165°F (74°C) near the bone.

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Step 5

Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy. Serve the grilled chicken alongside the warm carrots and cabbage, and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to get a nice char without drying out the meat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.

Why you’ll love it

This dish offers a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. The apple cider adds a subtle sweetness while the mustard gives a nice kick. It’s an easy way to elevate simple chicken thighs into something special and full of character.

Serving ideas

Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to complement the tangy marinade. Mashed potatoes or rice also work well to soak up any extra juices. A crisp apple slaw can enhance the fruity notes in the dish.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken. For longer storage, freeze cooked pieces and thaw in the fridge before reheating.