Connecticut Apple Cider Grilled Chicken

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups Connecticut apple cider
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them to start the fire.
3. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together apple cider, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry.
2. Brush the center grill grate with melted butter.
3. Place the chicken on the center grate and sear for about 2 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Griddle

1. Move the seared chicken to the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Cook for another 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 150°F.
3. Remove from the grill at 150°F and let it rest for 5-10 minutes (it will continue cooking to 165°F).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the chicken and drizzle with any remaining melted butter.
2. Enjoy with your favorite autumn sides!

Tips

• Let the marinade work for at least 2 hours to infuse maximum flavor.
• Always remove the chicken from the grill 15°F before the desired temperature to prevent overcooking.
• Use butter instead of oil for richer flavor.

Variations

1. Maple Apple Cider Chicken: Substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
2. Spicy Apple Cider Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for some heat.
3. Herb-Infused Cider Chicken: Add fresh thyme and rosemary to the marinade for added herbiness.
4. Garlic Honey Cider Chicken: Mix in 1 tablespoon of honey and an extra clove of garlic for a bolder, sweet-savory taste.
5. Mustard Apple Cider Chicken: Increase the Dijon mustard to 3 tablespoons for a tangier kick.

Conclusion

This Connecticut Apple Cider Grilled Chicken is all about bringing rich, seasonal flavors to your table with an unbeatable sear on the Arteflame grill. With the perfect balance of sweet apple cider, smoky char, and deliciously juicy meat, this dish is sure to be your new fall favorite!

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet potatoes with cinnamon butter
• Charred Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
• Buttery cornbread
• A glass of chilled Connecticut apple cider or a crisp white wine