Description

Craving a cozy, one-pan wonder that feels like fall in every bite? This *Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet* is a comforting, flavorful meal that combines tender seared chicken breasts with sweet apple slices, caramelized onions, and a thyme-scented sauce — all made in one skillet! It’s the perfect choice for an easy dinner, quick fall recipe, or hearty weeknight meal. Whether you’re looking for autumn dinner ideas, a healthy skillet meal, or food ideas for guests, this dish delivers elegance with minimal effort.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 large red onion thinly sliced

2 medium apples cored and thinly sliced

2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

2. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Sauté red onion slices for 3–4 minutes until softened.

4. Add apple slices and fresh thyme. Cook another 4–5 minutes, letting apples soften while keeping their shape.

5. Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits. Stir in Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and optional maple syrup or honey. Simmer for 2 minutes.

6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Cover loosely and simmer on low heat for 5–8 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with extra thyme if desired.

8. Serve directly from the skillet with your favorite side.

Notes

Use firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala for best texture.

For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or a bit more butter at the end.

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts — just adjust the cooking time.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner / One-Pan Meal
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast + sauce
Calories: 390
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 460mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 37g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: autumn recipe, chicken skillet, fall dinner, easy recipe, one-pan meal, apple chicken, cozy dinner