Description
A one-skillet fall dinner featuring juicy chicken, crisp apples, and a cozy apple cider sauce perfect for busy weeknights or seasonal gatherings.
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 and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for maximum flavor.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onions and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
4. Stir in apple slices and cook 2 to 3 minutes until they begin to soften but still hold shape.
5. Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
6. Stir in thyme, return chicken to skillet, and let simmer 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce reduces slightly.
7. Plate hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread, spooning the sauce over the top.
Notes
Use a cast iron skillet for even browning and a richer flavor.
Slice apples thinly so they soften quickly without turning mushy.
Rest chicken 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Add a splash of cream for a richer version or a pinch of cinnamon for extra fall flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g