Introduction

This Austrian-inspired Winter Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is the perfect dish for chilly days. Juicy, flavorful, and seared to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of apple cider with warm winter spices for a mouthwatering glaze. The high-temperature sear locks in juices while the reverse sear method ensures a tender bite every time. Let’s get grilling!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground clove
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the oil-soaked napkins in the center of the grill bowl.
3. Stack dry firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the paper napkins and let the fire build.
5. Allow about 20 minutes for the cooktop to reach optimal grilling temperatures.

Step 2: Prepare the apple cider glaze

1. Pour the apple cider directly onto the flat cooktop griddle near the center for higher heat.
2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Let it simmer and reduce for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add butter and mix well until it melts and integrates into the glaze.

Step 3: Sear the chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Place them on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F for about 1-2 minutes per side.
3. Once beautifully seared, move the chicken breasts to the flat cooktop to finish cooking.

Step 4: Glaze and finish cooking

1. Brush the chicken breasts generously with the apple cider glaze.
2. Continue cooking on the flat cooktop at a lower heat zone until the internal temperature reaches 150°F.
3. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes (it will reach an optimal 165°F while resting).

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Plate the glazed chicken and drizzle with some extra glaze.
2. Pair with grilled apples, roasted root vegetables, or a side of Austrian spätzle.

Tips

• Always remove the chicken from the grill at 150°F, as it will continue cooking while resting.
• Use the outer part of the Arteflame griddle to keep food warm while cooking other components.
• For extra flavor, grill apple slices alongside the chicken and glaze them with the cider reduction.

Variations

1. Maple Glazed Chicken: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a rich, caramelized sweetness.
2. Spicy Apple Cider Chicken: Add 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a gentle heat.
3. Garlic Herb Cider Chicken: Mix in minced garlic and fresh thyme to enhance the savory profile.
4. Smoky Bourbon Glaze: Add 2 tbsp bourbon and a dash of smoked paprika to bring out deeper flavors.
5. Honey Mustard Cider Chicken: Swap Dijon with whole-grain mustard and mix in 1 tbsp honey for a tangy-sweet twist.

Conclusion

Winter Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is an irresistible dish that balances sweet and savory flavors with the perfect sear from the Arteflame grill. Cooked to juicy perfection using the high-heat searing and reverse sear technique, this meal is bound to impress. Fire up your grill and bring the flavors of Austria to your home!

Best Pairings

• Side: Grilled apples and roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Drink: A glass of Austrian Grüner Veltliner white wine.
• Dessert: Warm apple strudel with vanilla ice cream.