Autumn Chicken with Apples

As the days grow cooler, this Autumn Chicken Dinner brings together juicy chicken breasts, caramelized sweet potatoes, tart apples, and a warm spiced cider glaze all in one oven-ready skillet. It is that cozy dish I reach for when the air smells like leaves and sweaters come out of storage.

The first time I made this, autumn sunshine was streaming through the window. Now it is a standing family tradition whenever apples are in season and everyone looks forward to that first bite.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Essential protein and soaks up flavor Choose fresh and plump pieces for juiciness
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken Use high quality extra virgin for best taste
• Butter: Gives a silky texture to the sauce and enhances all flavors Pick unsalted to control overall saltiness
• Garlic minced: Builds aromatic depth Always use fresh cloves for punchy flavor
• Apple cider: Delivers gentle sweetness and tartness Look for unfiltered or local cider if possible
• Chicken broth: Supports a balanced savory sauce Choose low sodium to adjust seasoning easily
• Dijon mustard: Brings subtle tang and complexity Go for traditional Dijon not yellow mustard
• Dried thyme: Lends earthy autumn notes Make sure it is green and aromatic not faded
• Cinnamon: Warms up the entire dish and pairs with cider Use true cinnamon or Ceylon if you can find it
• Sweet potatoes peeled and cubed: The hearty and sweet backbone for fall satisfaction Find firm unblemished potatoes
• Apple cored and sliced: Offers pops of tartness and bright color Crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji hold up well
• Pecans chopped: Lend nutty crunch and toasty autumn aroma Toast lightly for more flavor if you have time
• Salt and pepper: Brings all the flavors into focus Freshly cracked is ideal
• Fresh parsley: Brings freshness and a touch of color Always use fresh leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry and sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper on both sides This ensures the seasoning will seep in and the chicken will brown well in the pan

Brown the Chicken:

In a large ovenproof skillet heat olive oil over medium high When hot add chicken breasts Cook each side for six to seven minutes until they are a rich golden color and a crisp layer forms Transfer the browned chicken to a plate but leave any juices in the skillet

Build the Sauce Base:

With the skillet back on medium melt butter then add fresh minced garlic Stir and let it become fragrant for about one minute never letting it brown This brings out its sweet side

Deglaze with Liquids:

Pour in apple cider and chicken broth to the skillet Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom since these add tons of flavor Simmer gently to meld everything together

Season the Sauce:

Vigorously whisk in Dijon mustard dried thyme and cinnamon then closely watch as you cook the mixture for about two minutes until it becomes aromatic and slightly thick This step is key for balanced flavor

Add Veggies and Fruit:

Toss sweet potato cubes and apple slices right into the sauce Gently turn so each piece is coated in the spiced liquid for even roasting

Create the Autumn Nest:

Return the golden chicken to the skillet nestling the breasts among the sweet potatoes and apples so they cook together Add all the chicken juices from the plate for extra flavor

Add Toasted Crunch:

Sprinkle the chopped pecans over everything pressing a few down into the sauce Pre toasting the pecans makes their flavor extra nutty

Bake to Finish:

Transfer the entire skillet to a preheated oven at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sweet potatoes are perfectly fork tender

Rest and Garnish:

Let the dish rest out of the oven for five minutes so juices can redistribute Scatter fresh parsley on top for color and brightness Serve hot for best comfort

Save

I always look forward to how the sweet potatoes hold onto all the sauce and spices It reminds me of cozy Sunday dinners by the fireplace with my family laughter echoing around the kitchen

Storage Tips

To store cool leftovers completely before placing them in an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days When reheating add a splash of chicken broth or apple cider before warming in the oven or on the stove to keep the chicken moist Sweet potatoes and apples will soften more but the flavors deepen with time

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy free version swap the butter for extra olive oil Try chicken thighs for extra juiciness or swap the chicken for turkey breasts if you prefer For more crunch use walnuts in place of pecans and pears can stand in for apples if that is what you have

Serving Suggestions

Round out the meal with a crisp green salad a scoop of wild rice or some roasted Brussels sprouts This dish pairs well with a light cider or a Pinot Noir for adults Crusty bread is a great way to mop up every last drop of the cider glaze

Cultural or Historical Context

Apple cider baked chicken draws on classic autumn harvest traditions in many cozy kitchens across North America Apples and sweet potatoes have long been Autumn staples in comfort food cuisine This skillet dinner brings together ingredients that celebrate both the bounty and changing colors of fall

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of apple works best for this dish?

Tart varieties such as Granny Smith or crisp, sweet types like Honeycrisp both work well, offering balance with the savory chicken and sweet potatoes.

→ Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs will remain juicy and add richer flavor. Adjust cook time to ensure they reach safe temperature.

→ Is there a substitute for apple cider?

If apple cider is unavailable, unsweetened apple juice can be used, though the flavor will be slightly lighter.

→ Can the sweet potatoes be swapped for another vegetable?

Butternut squash or carrots are excellent alternatives, offering similar sweetness and roasting well with the chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.