Why Make This Recipe
Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet is a wonderful dish to try, especially as the weather gets cooler. It brings together the flavors of chicken, apples, and onions in a warm, comforting meal. This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The sweetness of the apples and the rich taste of the apple cider create a delicious sauce that enhances the chicken. This dish not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart as you enjoy the flavors of fall.
How to Make Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet
Making Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet is straightforward and doesn't require any advanced cooking skills. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoon 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 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. This step enhances the chicken's flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once it is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown color. After cooking, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook the onions for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
- Next, stir in the apple slices. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they begin to become slightly tender.
- Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth. Make sure to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they add lots of flavor to the dish.
- Add the fresh thyme leaves to the skillet. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer together for about 8-10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce reduces slightly.
- Your dish is ready! Serve it hot over mashed potatoes or rice, and spoon the delicious sauce over the top.
How to Serve Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet
When it's time to serve your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet, place a portion of the mashed potatoes or rice on each plate. Lay the chicken on top and drizzle the yummy sauce with apples and onions over everything. You might like to add a simple salad or some steamed vegetables on the side. This meal looks great and tastes even better.
How to Store Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet
If you have leftovers, you can store them easily. Let the dish cool down to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet
- If you can, use fresh thyme as it adds a nice flavor to the dish. If you only have dried thyme, make sure to use a little less, as its flavor is stronger.
- Try mixing other fruits like pears with your apples for extra sweetness.
- For added texture, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top when serving.
Variation
You can change the chicken to turkey breast for a different flavor. Similarly, using other vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts can add variety to this dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
2. What can I serve instead of mashed potatoes or rice?
You can serve the chicken with quinoa, couscous, or even a hearty bread to soak up the sauce.
3. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.
Conclusion
Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet is a lovely dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. It is easy to make and brings warmth to your dining table. With its sweet and savory sauce, tender chicken, and hints of fresh herbs, this meal will soon become a family favorite. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones!
Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 pieces apples, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Gala)
- 1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown color.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Cooking
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the apple slices and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the fresh thyme leaves, return the seared chicken to the skillet, and let everything simmer together for about 8-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce reduces slightly.
Serving
- Serve the dish hot over mashed potatoes or rice, drizzling the sauce with apples and onions over the top.
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