Apple Chicken Skillet

Apple Chicken Skillet is a savory-sweet, one-pan meal that brings together tender seared chicken with caramelized apples, onions, and a touch of thyme. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that perfectly captures the warmth of fall—but is delicious any time of year. With its simple ingredients and elegant presentation, this skillet dinner is a perfect choice for both weeknight meals and cozy weekend dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the richness of seared chicken with the natural sweetness of apples and the depth of sautéed onions and herbs. It’s made in just one pan, meaning easy cleanup and minimal fuss. The flavors are balanced, warm, and wholesome—perfect for cooler evenings or when you’re craving something hearty but fresh. It’s also easy to customize with your favorite sides or seasonal ingredients.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Apples (firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala)
• Yellow onion
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• Olive oil or butter
• Fresh or dried thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: heavy cream or a splash of white wine for a richer sauce

directions

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until softened and beginning to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and apples. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the apples start to soften.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
7. Optional: Stir in a splash of cream or wine at the end for a richer sauce.
8. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add baby spinach or kale for a green veggie boost.
• Use pork chops instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Swap thyme with sage or rosemary for an autumnal flavor.
• Add a handful of dried cranberries or walnuts for texture and sweetness.
• Make it dairy-free by skipping cream and using olive oil instead of butter.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts.
Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of apples after thawing.

FAQs

What kind of apples are best for this recipe?

Use firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Braeburn so they hold their shape during cooking.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but it will require a longer cook time. Sear well and simmer until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the dish a day ahead and reheat gently. The flavors get even better the next day.

Is this dish sweet or savory?

It’s a balanced combination of both—savory chicken and onions with a subtle sweetness from apples.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure the Dijon mustard and chicken broth you use are certified gluten-free.

What can I serve with Apple Chicken Skillet?

Mashed potatoes, wild rice, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread all pair beautifully.

Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans make excellent additions.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce, or add a small cornstarch slurry if you prefer it thicker.

Can I use apple juice instead of cider vinegar?

You can, but add a small splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance the sweetness.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs nicely.

Conclusion

Apple Chicken Skillet is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that brings together savory chicken and naturally sweet apples in a simple yet elegant way. With wholesome ingredients, minimal prep, and one-pan cleanup, it’s an ideal recipe for cozy dinners without the hassle. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish delivers seasonal comfort with every bite.

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