As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of autumn. Recently, I dove into my pantry and found a bottle of apple cider, just waiting to inspire something magical. That’s when I decided to create these Apple Cider Chicken Skewers, a dish that perfectly marries the sweetness of cider with the savory depths of grilled chicken. Imagine juicy, marinated skewers kissed by the flames, bathed in a rich gouda sauce that adds a velvety finish—it’s comfort food at its finest.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an outdoor gathering with friends, these skewers are not just easy to make; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transports you straight into the heart of fall. So roll up your sleeves, fire up the grill, and let’s embark on this delicious journey that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Your taste buds deserve a little autumn magic, don’t you think?
Why are Apple Cider Chicken Skewers irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: The savory-sweet pairing of apple cider and grilled chicken is a delicious autumn delight that tantalizes the taste buds.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these skewers are bound to impress your guests.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or cheese varieties to make this dish truly your own.
Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a spectacular meal on the table in no time.
Comfort in Every Bite: Drizzled with creamy gouda sauce, this dish embodies comfort food at its finest, warming your soul as the weather cools down.
For more cozy weeknight ideas, check out our recipe for garden veggie macaroni salad.
Apple Cider Chicken Skewers Ingredients
• Get ready to savor every bite!
For the Skewers
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless, diced into 1½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Apple Cider – Adds a natural sweetness to the marinade; feel free to experiment with other fruit juices for different flavors.
- Olive Oil – Keeps the chicken juicy; vegetable oil works well as a substitute.
- Brown Sugar – Balances the marinade’s acidity and enhances the sweet notes; maple syrup can be a tasty alternative.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the flavors; you can swap it out for white vinegar in a pinch.
- Spices (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Thyme, Red Pepper Flakes, Black Pepper, Ginger, Cinnamon) – All provide a warm depth to the dish; adjust based on your spice preference.
For the Gouda Sauce
- Cornstarch – Thickens the marinade to create a sticky glaze; arrowroot powder can also be used here.
- Milk and Cream – The creamy base of the gouda sauce; substitute with non-dairy options like almond or cashew milk.
- Salted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; if you prefer, use unsalted butter and adjust salt levels accordingly.
- Cheese (Velveeta, Gouda, Parmesan) – A perfect blend for a smooth, cheesy sauce; smoked gouda or sharp cheddar offers fun flavor twists.
- Seasonings (Cayenne, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Nutmeg) – Enhance flavor while balancing richness in the sauce; adjust heat with cayenne to your liking.
Get ready to create your Apple Cider Chicken Skewers with Gouda Sauce that are sure to be a hit at your next meal!
How to Make Apple Cider Chicken Skewers
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Prep Marinade: In a saucepan, whisk together cornstarch and cold water, then mix in the apple cider, olive oil, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices. Heat gently until thickened, then let it cool completely.
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Marinate Chicken: Reserve 1 cup of the marinade for glazing later. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken cubes in a bowl or resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to soak in.
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Skewer Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken evenly onto skewers, ensuring to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the skewers for added flavor.
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Grill: Preheat your grill to high and oil the grates well. Grill the chicken skewers, brushing with the reserved marinade, for about 10-12 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
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Make Gouda Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat milk, cream, butter, and spices over low heat until warm. Gradually whisk in the cheeses until melted and smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste.
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Serve: Arrange the chicken skewers on a platter and generously drizzle with the creamy gouda sauce. Enjoy the warmth of autumn in every bite!
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Apple Cider Chicken Skewers Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your skewers with these exciting twists that enhance flavor and cater to different dietary needs.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the gouda cheese with nutritional yeast and a non-dairy milk alternative to create a creamy sauce without dairy.
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Vegetable Boost: Add colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes between the chicken pieces for extra nutrition and flavor.
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Sweet and Spicy: Mix honey and sriracha in the marinade for a delightful sweet heat that pairs beautifully with the cider.
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Herb Infusions: Experiment with fresh herbs such as rosemary or cilantro in the marinade to elevate the flavor profile with aromatic notes.
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Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to dial up the spice for those who love a little kick.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate fruits like peaches or pineapple on the skewers for a delightful burst of sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
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Gouda Alternatives: Switch up the gouda sauce using smoked gouda or even feta for a unique tangy experience.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure your marinade and sauces are gluten-free by choosing appropriate vinegar and sauces, allowing everyone to enjoy this dish!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Chicken Skewers
- Cool Marinade: Ensure the marinade is completely cooled before adding the chicken to avoid premature cooking, leading to dry skewers.
- Oiled Grate: Generously oil your grill grates to prevent the skewers from sticking and achieve beautiful grill marks that enhance presentation.
- Frequent Glazing: Brush the chicken skewers often with the reserved marinade while grilling for an extra layer of flavor and a delicious, glossy glaze.
- Rest for Juiciness: Allow the grilled chicken skewers to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to retain their moisture and tenderness.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the spice levels in the gouda sauce and marinade to suit your preferences—don’t be afraid to experiment!
Storage Tips for Apple Cider Chicken Skewers
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
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Freezer: Freeze the chicken skewers for up to 2 months. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
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Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen Apple Cider Chicken Skewers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat on a grill or in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cider Chicken Skewers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save precious time during the week! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply mix the marinade, add the chicken, and refrigerate it in a sealed container. Additionally, you can prepare the gouda sauce up to 3 days prior; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to cook, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for about 10-12 minutes. Drizzle with your reheated gouda sauce for a delicious meal that feels effortless, yet tastes just as amazing as fresh!
What to Serve with Apple Cider Chicken Skewers with Gouda Sauce?
Cozy up your dinner table with perfect pairings that enhance the delightful flavors of your skewers.
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Garden Veggie Macaroni Salad: A refreshing and creamy side that adds a delightful crunch, complementing the savory-sweet notes of the chicken.
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Roasted Vegetables: Those caramelized edges and warm flavors of seasonal veggies create a beautiful contrast to the tender chicken.
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Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots: The crispy, smoky richness of bacon around fluffy tater tots can turn your meal into a comfort food celebration.
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Smashed Potato Salad: This creamy salad offers the perfect balance of richness and tanginess, beautifully tying the meal together with its comforting texture.
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Burrata-Stuffed Tomatoes: These juicy, fresh tomatoes serve as a light and flavorful complement, bringing a burst of freshness to the rich gouda sauce.
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Autumn Apple Slaw: Crisp apples mixed with cabbage create an invigorating side that mirrors the apple cider in the skewers, providing a vibrant taste contrast.
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Chardonnay or Apple Cider Cocktails: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the savory elements, while a bold apple cider cocktail brings out the dish’s inherent flavors beautifully.
Each of these dishes offers its own unique character, ensuring your dinner is both balanced and incredibly satisfying.
Apple Cider Chicken Skewers with Creamy Gouda Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apple cider?
Absolutely! When selecting apple cider for your Apple Cider Chicken Skewers, look for a fresh, unfiltered option without added sugars or preservatives. The sweetness and depth of flavor play a crucial role in the marinade. Avoid cider with any off smells or a dark, murky appearance, as these could indicate spoilage.
How long can I store the cooked chicken skewers?
Very well! Cooked Apple Cider Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure they’re cooled completely before sealing to maintain their flavor and tenderness. If you’re planning to enjoy them later, leave the creamy gouda sauce separate to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze the chicken skewers?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Apple Cider Chicken Skewers, wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after cooling completely. Place the wrapped skewers in a resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
What should I do if my gouda sauce isn’t thickening?
No worries! If your gouda sauce isn’t thickening as expected, it’s likely that the heat is too low or that it needed a bit more cornstarch. Here’s a step-by-step fix:
- Turn the heat to medium-low and stir the sauce continuously to allow it to warm evenly.
- If it still appears too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a splash of cold milk until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the sauce.
- Continue to heat and stir until the sauce thickens, usually taking an additional 2-3 minutes. Adjust the seasoning as you go, and you’ll have a creamy, luscious sauce in no time!
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Definitely! For those with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that this recipe contains dairy (milk, cream, and cheese) and gluten (in case of cross-contamination with cornstarch). Vegans can use almond or cashew milk and a non-dairy cheese alternative. Always check for allergies, especially with spices, which can vary. Enjoy creating a version that works best for you!
Apple Cider Chicken Skewers with Creamy Gouda Sauce Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, whisk together cornstarch and cold water, then mix in the apple cider, olive oil, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices. Heat gently until thickened, then let it cool completely.
- Reserve 1 cup of the marinade for glazing later. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken cubes in a bowl or resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Thread the marinated chicken evenly onto skewers, ensuring to leave a little space between each piece. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the skewers.
- Preheat your grill to high and oil the grates well. Grill the chicken skewers, brushing with the reserved marinade, for about 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
- In a medium saucepan, heat milk, cream, butter, and spices over low heat until warm. Gradually whisk in the cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Arrange the chicken skewers on a platter and generously drizzle with the creamy gouda sauce. Enjoy!
