Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce

INTRODUCTION

Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together savory chicken and sweet apples. This meal is not only tasty but also quite wholesome. The blend of flavors from the chicken and the sweetness of the apples make it a favorite for many. The dish is easy to make and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. You can impress your guests with this simple yet flavorful recipe.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce for many reasons. First, it is a comforting dish that is perfect for any meal. The combination of juicy chicken and tender apples creates a satisfying bite. The pan sauce adds a rich depth of flavor that ties everything together.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. You can make it in under an hour, making it great for busy weeknights. Plus, it requires only a few ingredients, many of which you may already have in your kitchen.

This recipe is also versatile. You can easily adjust the spices and herbs to suit your taste. You can add more apples for sweetness or spices for an extra kick.

Finally, this dish is healthy! Chicken is a great source of protein, and apples provide fiber and vitamins. This makes it a balanced meal that you can feel good about serving your family.

HOW TO MAKE Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce

Making Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce is quite simple. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious meal.

Equipment Needed

To prepare this dish, you will need the following equipment:

• A liquid measuring cup
• A mixing bowl
• A cast-iron skillet
• A whisk
• A measuring spoon
• A small bowl

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 1/2 lbs), thicker portions pounded to even thickness
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp black pepper
• 3/4 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 2 medium gala apples, cored and sliced thin
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion (1/2 of a small)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp minced fresh thyme
• 1 tsp minced fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp minced fresh sage
• 1 cup + 1 Tbsp apple juice
• 1 Tbsp honey
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a liquid measuring cup or mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup apple juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, and dijon mustard. Set this sauce mixture aside.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 1 Tbsp apple juice; set aside.

3. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Sprinkle chicken thighs on both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

5. Drizzle olive oil into the skillet.

6. Add chicken to the skillet, spacing them evenly apart. Sear the chicken until browned on the bottom, about 6 minutes.

7. Turn the chicken over, reduce heat to medium, and continue cooking. Cook until the chicken’s center reaches 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, about 5 to 6 minutes longer.

8. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate. If there are black bits in the skillet, scrape them off using wet balled-up paper towels.

9. Return the skillet to medium heat, then melt the butter.

10. Add the sliced apples, chopped red onions, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the skillet. Lightly season with salt and sauté for 3 minutes.

11. Add the minced thyme, rosemary, and sage. Sauté for 1 more minute until the apples begin to soften.

12. Pour in the apple juice and honey mixture. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce. Season with salt to taste.

13. Whisk the apple juice and cornstarch mixture again. Pour it into the skillet.

14. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds while stirring until the sauce thickens.

15. Return the chicken to the apple mixture in the skillet. Spoon the apples and pan sauce over the chicken.

***

***

HOW TO SERVE Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce

Serve Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce warm. It goes well with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The pan sauce adds moisture, making every bite delicious. You can drizzle extra sauce over the sides for added flavor.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of apple juice or water to keep it moist.

If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for about 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Here are some options for serving this dish:

• Pair with fluffy white rice or wild rice for a hearty meal.
• Serve with steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for added nutrition.
• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
• For a more filling meal, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious pan sauce.

VARIATIONS

If you want to change things up, here are some variations you can try:

• Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• If you like a sweeter taste, consider adding dried cranberries or raisins along with the apples.
• Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley.
• Try using different types of apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a unique flavor profile.

FAQs

What type of chicken should I use?

You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts based on your preference. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything up to cooking the chicken in advance. Just store the marinated chicken and the apple mixture separately and cook them on the day you want to serve.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes! Pears can work well instead of apples. You can also try adding cranberries for a tangy twist.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way to check is to use an instant-read thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

***

***

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chicken with Apples and Pan Sauce

To save time, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Mix the apple juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard, and store them in the fridge. Chop the apples and onions ahead of time as well. Store them in a sealed container to keep them fresh.

When you’re ready to cook, it will be easy to put everything together quickly. Enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal preparation time!

Print