Apple Chicken Skillet Recipe: A Delicious Fall-Inspired Dish

Apple Chicken Skillet is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, creating a satisfying and comforting meal ideal for cooler months. This dish features tender chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with apple cider, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. The addition of sliced apples and aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme elevates the flavors, making it an easy yet impressive meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Chicken Skillet

This Apple Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the richness of chicken with the sweetness of apples and the tang of mustard and cider. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce coats the chicken and apples, creating a savory-sweet experience that’s irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Apple Chicken Skillet

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The main protein that stays juicy and tender when cooked in the creamy sauce.

• Flour: Used to coat the chicken before cooking, giving it a nice golden crust.

• Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables, adding flavor and moisture.

• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish when sautéed.

• Garlic: A must-have for savory dishes, bringing in a rich, aromatic flavor.

• Thyme and Rosemary: These fresh herbs add a savory, earthy note to the dish.

• Cinnamon (optional): A warm spice that complements the sweetness of the apples and maple syrup.

• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the sauce, making it rich and savory.

• Apple Cider: A subtle, fruity tang that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce rich and creamy, giving the dish a luxurious texture.

• Dijon and Grainy Mustard: These mustards bring a tangy sharpness that balances the sweetness of the apples and syrup.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds acidity and helps cut through the richness of the cream.

• Maple Syrup: Sweetens the sauce naturally and adds a lovely depth of flavor.

• Apples: Sliced and cooked until tender, they provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for a different flavor profile or need to adjust the recipe to your dietary preferences, here are some great swaps:

• Chicken Breasts to Thighs: Thighs will add more flavor and remain juicier, perfect if you prefer darker meat.

• Apple Cider Vinegar to Lemon Juice: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, lemon juice can provide the same acidic balance.

• Maple Syrup to Honey: For a different kind of sweetness, honey can replace maple syrup, though it will change the flavor slightly.

• Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free flour blend to coat the chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Chicken Skillet

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper, then dust them with flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the chopped garlic, thyme, rosemary, and cinnamon (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, grainy mustard, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Stir to combine.
6. Combine Chicken and Apples: Return the chicken to the skillet along with the sliced apples. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the apples are tender.
7. Serve: Spoon the sauce and apples over the chicken and serve hot.

Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Apple Chicken Skillet

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to monitor the cooking time for the chicken to ensure it remains juicy and tender. Cooking it for 4-6 minutes per side over medium heat should suffice.

• Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes. For a thinner sauce, add a little more chicken broth or cider.

• Crispy Chicken: If you like your chicken extra crispy, you can sear it a bit longer before removing it from the skillet.

• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a bit of extra broth or cider to refresh the sauce.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Apple Chicken Skillet pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside quinoa or couscous. If you’d like to add a twist, try melting cheddar cheese into the sauce or topping the dish with crispy prosciutto or bacon. For a burst of color and tartness, consider adding fresh cranberries to the pan along with the apples.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the chicken and sauce separately and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken in a skillet, adding the apples near the end. This will help preserve the texture and flavor of the chicken and apples.

This Apple Chicken Skillet recipe is a fall favorite that combines the best of savory and sweet flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress with its rich sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked apples. Enjoy the taste of autumn in every bite!

Conclusion

The Apple Chicken Skillet is the perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweet, tangy notes of apples and maple syrup. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this dish offers simplicity without compromising on taste. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fall-inspired flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

FAQ About Apple Chicken Skillet

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