Ingredients:

This Chicken Apple Skillet recipe serves 4 people and can easily be scaled up for a larger group. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts – 4 medium, cut into ¾ inch (2 cm) strips
• Salt – ½ tsp (2.5 g), or to taste
• Black pepper – ½ tsp (2.5 g), or to taste
• Dried thyme or rosemary – ½ tsp (2 g) (optional for added flavor)
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp (30 ml) for searing the chicken

For the Apples:

• Apples – 2 medium (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
• Butter – 1 tbsp (15 g), for caramelizing the apples
• Garlic – 2 cloves, finely minced

For the Sauce:

• Chicken or vegetable stock – ½ cup (120 ml)
• Honey – 1 tbsp (15 g)
• Apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp (15 ml)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme – for garnish (optional)

To Serve:

• Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread – to soak up the delicious sauce

Steps on How to Prepare the Chicken Apple Skillet:

1. Preparing the Chicken:

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into uniform strips, about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick, ensuring they are even so they cook uniformly. Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper on both sides, and sprinkle with dried thyme or rosemary for an extra herbal note. The seasoning brings out the natural flavor of the chicken while enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

2. Searing the Chicken:

Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. It’s essential to ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. Once the oil is shimmering, place the seasoned chicken strips in the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This step ensures that the chicken sears properly and develops a golden-brown crust.

Cook the chicken for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s time to flip when the chicken strips easily release from the pan. The searing process locks in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. You’ll use the same skillet to cook the apples, which will absorb all the flavorful remnants left in the pan from the chicken.

3. Cooking the Apples:

In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced apples in an even layer. Caramelizing the apples in the leftover chicken juices will add a subtle depth of flavor. Allow the apples to cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side. The goal is to soften the apples while achieving a light browning, which brings out their natural sweetness.

Once the apples have softened and browned slightly, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Garlic brings a savory undertone to the dish and pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the apples.

4. Preparing the Sauce:

To make the sauce, pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any flavorful bits that may have stuck to the bottom of the pan during the cooking process. These caramelized bits add depth and umami to the dish.

Next, add a touch of honey for sweetness, followed by a splash of apple cider vinegar to provide a subtle tang. The honey balances out the acidity of the vinegar and enriches the sauce, creating a harmonious sweet-and-sour profile. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly. This process will fill your kitchen with a delightful sweet and savory aroma.

5. Bringing Everything Together:

Once the sauce has thickened and is perfectly balanced, return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet. Toss the chicken in the sauce, making sure each piece is coated in the flavorful mixture. Allow the chicken to warm through, absorbing the sauce’s flavors, creating a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy tastes.

6. Garnishing and Serving:

For the final touch, garnish the dish with fresh rosemary or thyme. These herbs not only add a burst of color but also enhance the dish’s earthy flavors. Serve your Chicken Apple Skillet alongside mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Prep Time:

• 10 minutes to cut and season the chicken
• 5 minutes to slice the apples
• 5 minutes to prepare the sauce ingredients

Cooking Time:

• 15 to 20 minutes (cooking the chicken, apples, and sauce)

Total Time:

• 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish

Calories per Serving:

• Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings)

Why This Recipe is Timeless:

The Chicken Apple Skillet is a classic example of the beauty of simplicity. This dish brings together two ingredients—chicken and apples—that complement each other perfectly, combining savory, sweet, and tangy notes. The versatility of this recipe allows it to be adapted based on the seasons or personal preference, making it timeless.

Chicken is an affordable and accessible protein that pairs wonderfully with many fruits and vegetables, but the addition of apples provides a freshness and natural sweetness that elevates the dish. The honey and apple cider vinegar create an exceptional sauce that can be drizzled over any side dish, whether you choose potatoes, rice, or bread. The flavors are familiar yet sophisticated, making this recipe suitable for casual family dinners and elegant gatherings alike.

The dish’s simplicity makes it approachable for home cooks of all skill levels, and it can easily be prepared in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup. It’s a great option for those who want a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 400 mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of apple? A: Yes! While tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best, you can also use Fuji or Gala apples. Choose apples that hold their shape well when cooked.

Q: Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will provide even more flavor, as they tend to be juicier and more tender.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. However, the apples are best cooked fresh to maintain their texture and flavor. You can reheat the chicken and sauce gently before adding the apples.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Apple Skillet:

1. Sear the Chicken Properly: Make sure your skillet is hot enough to sear the chicken. If the pan is too cold, the chicken will steam instead of getting a nice golden crust.
2. Use the Right Apple: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide the best balance of sweetness and acidity for this dish.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken or caramelizing the apples, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
4. Adjust the Sauce to Taste: If you like your sauce a bit sweeter, add more honey; for a tangier version, increase the apple cider vinegar.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken apple skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately, the apples are best enjoyed fresh, as they can lose texture when frozen.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Apple Skillet is a timeless recipe that beautifully combines savory chicken with the natural sweetness of apples. The easy-to-make dish, with its rich sauce, ensures that every bite is full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a special family meal, or a gathering with friends, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Its versatility, simplicity, and ability to bring out the best in its ingredients make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Perfect for any occasion, the Chicken Apple Skillet delivers a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that will leave you craving more.