Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

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Golden, seared chicken breasts simmer with sweet apples, caramelized onions, and a rich herb-infused pan sauce in this Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet. This cozy one-pan meal brings together crisp fall flavors with hearty comfort, making it perfect for chilly evenings. It’s savory, a little sweet, and full of aromatic herbs that will make your kitchen smell absolutely divine.

The beauty of this dish is how quickly it comes together, making it a solid choice for weeknights or casual hosting. Juicy chicken meets the tang of apples and the depth of thyme in a sauce that feels both rustic and elevated. It’s the kind of meal you serve straight from the skillet and watch everyone come back for seconds.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

You want apples that hold their shape during cooking but still offer sweetness. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples are ideal. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully and pair well with the savory components.

Ingredients for the Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

• Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish, they sear beautifully and soak up the sauce.
• Apples: Add sweetness and a slight tartness; slice thin so they cook evenly.
• Red Onion: Caramelizes to add rich, savory-sweet flavor.
• Garlic: Brings depth and a fragrant base note.
• Fresh Thyme: Earthy and aromatic, it makes the whole skillet sing.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the sauce and keeps the dish juicy.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and complexity to the sauce.
• Olive Oil & Butter: For searing and richness.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.

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How To Make the Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, add sliced red onions. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and caramelized. Add minced garlic and stir for another minute.

Step 3: Add the Apples

Toss in the sliced apples and fresh thyme. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, just until the apples begin to soften.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Deglaze the pan with chicken broth and stir in Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Return the Chicken

Place the chicken back into the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top, cover, and let simmer for 5–8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and everything is beautifully blended.

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Serving and Storing Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. The juicy chicken and tender apples make it both elegant and comforting. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the textures.

What to Serve With Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and buttery potatoes pair beautifully with the herbed sauce.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their crispy edges and earthy flavor balance the sweetness of the apples.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Adds a nutty, chewy component that complements the tender chicken.

Warm Crusty Bread

Perfect for soaking up every bit of that savory sauce.

Butternut Squash Soup

Adds a silky, seasonal starter to your dinner spread.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet, check out some of these flavorful favorites from Savor Queen:

• Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with a golden, peppery crust.
• Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for a rich, cheesy comfort dish.
• White Cheddar Chicken Pasta that’s creamy, bold, and packed with flavor.
• Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs for a sticky-sweet twist.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni if you’re craving pasta night perfection.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of apple cider or a hint of sage? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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