Description
This Chicken and Apples Skillet recipe features succulent pan-seared chicken thighs paired with tender sautéed apples and onions in a flavorful apple cider sauce. The blend of savory herbs, warm cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory in a quick and easy one-pan meal, ideal for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ¾ tsp salt, divided
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
Sauteed Apples & Onions
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced
- 2 Tbsp butter
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- ¼ tsp salt (additional to the ¾ tsp)
Sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ cup apple cider
- ½ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them evenly with ½ tsp salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to ensure the meat is flavorful.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove from the skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.
- Prepare the Apples and Onions: While the chicken cooks, thinly slice the onion and core and slice the apples. This preparation allows for quick cooking once the chicken is out of the skillet.
- Sauté the Apples and Onions: Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and onions and cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become translucent and the apples soften slightly.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in dried rosemary, cinnamon, the remaining ¼ tsp salt, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, then stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the skillet contents to a simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by about half and thickens into a flavorful sauce.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the apples and onions. Heat through for a few minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce flavors. Serve hot with the apple and onion mixture spooned over the chicken.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Cover the cooked chicken to keep it warm and moist while preparing the sauce.
- The sauce can be thickened further by simmering longer if desired.
- For a lower fat option, use less butter or substitute with olive oil.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
