Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

why make this recipe

Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet is a delightful meal that captures the essence of the fall season. It combines juicy chicken with sweet apples and savory onions, all simmered in a rich apple cider sauce. This dish not only tastes great but also fills your kitchen with warm, comforting aromas. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you have guests over. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that is sure to impress everyone at the table.

how to make Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 apples, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Gala work well)
• 1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until they soften.
4. Stir in the apple slices and cook for another 2–3 minutes until they are slightly tender.
5. Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6. Add the thyme and return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce reduces slightly.
7. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice, spooning the sauce over the top.

how to serve Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet is best served warm and can be paired with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the meal. Drizzle some of the sauce over your side dishes for extra flavor. If you want to add a touch of autumn, sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top before serving.

how to store Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

To store the leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in apple cider for a few hours before cooking.
• Use a mix of different apples for more depth in flavor.
• Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• If you like a thicker sauce, whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or even Brussels sprouts. Swap out the chicken for turkey or pork if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

2. What kind of apples work best?
Honeycrisp and Gala apples are recommended because they are sweet and hold their shape well during cooking.

3. Can I use something other than apple cider?
If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice or even a mix of apple juice and a splash of vinegar for acidity.

4. How can I make this dish more spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking for a little kick.

5. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even quinoa. Adding a side of greens or a salad can also be refreshing.