What is Chicken with Apples recipe? Is it like autumn exploded in a pan? Remember those cozy nights when you were little, and your mom or grandma would make something that you could eat? Is it possible to smell like home? What is that feeling, bottled up and served on a plate? Think of it as the comforting cousin of a classic pot roast, but with an savory twist. Is there any way to make a person ask for seconds? Seriously, I’ve made this for the pickiest eaters, and even they were scraping their plates clean. What is it like to eat tart apples with chicken? Is chicken with apples addictive?
What is chicken with apples?
What is Chicken with Apples? Imagine juicy chicken thighs or breasts, pan-seared to golden perfection, nestled amongst a sprinkling of roasted potatoes. Caramelized apples are tender. What is the best one-pan wonder where the chicken soaks up all those amazing apple flavors and is cooked to perfection. Some versions are simmered in cider, some have a touch of cream, but the core idea remains: “Simmering is the best way to make it taste better” It’s a celebration of sweet and savory, brought together in the most delicious way possible. I think of it as sophisticated comfort food; but I don’t know what to eat. Elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough to eat on weeknights. What is that dish that feels special without being fussy? My grandmother called it “Autumn’s Embrace,” which, honestly, is the perfect name for it.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best reasons to make Chicken with Apples?flavorIs this just outstanding? The sweetness from apples, the savory chicken, and the hint of herbs create a symphony of tastes. Is that irresistible? Is it sweet, but not cloying, savory, and not heavy?simplicityWhat are some of the best recipes that make you look like a culinary genius without actually doing anything? What are the requisite skills for Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the cooking process is straightforward. I’ve made it in a camper stove! Plus, it’s super easy to make.cost-efficientChicken thighs are often more budget-friendly than chicken breasts, and apples are usually pretty inexpensive. Easy on the wallet, especially during the fall harvest. What I love about this dish is its flavor.versatility. You can serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or just a simple green salad. Is it good to eat hot or cold, making it perfect for leftovers? What are some good base recipes to try – feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Is apple cider vinegar good for tang? What are some good sweet and savory recipes?
How to Make Chicken with Apples
Quick Overview
How do I make chicken with apples? What is the best way to sear chicken, sauté apples, onions, garlic, then combine everything.? In the same pan with a touch of chicken broth and herbs. Let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the apples are tender. That’s it! How do you let the flavors meld together in a simmering process? Don’t be intimidated by the fancy-sounding name; this is totally doable, even on a busy weeknight. I promise you’ll feel like a rockstar when you pull this off!
Ingredients
For the Chicken: What are some good
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken legs (or 2 chicken breasts, halved horizontally) – I prefer thighs. For the extra flavor and juiciness, but breasts work too!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Use a good quality Olive oil for the best flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
For the apples and aromatics:
• 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored and sliced – These varieties hold their own. What are some of the best recipes to cook? Granny Smith will give it a tart kick.
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced – Adds a nice savory base to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly chopped is always best!
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – You can use fresh or dried, just double the amount.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage – Adds a warm, earthy note.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth – Low-sodium is a good option so you can control the saltiness.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
First, pat the chicken thighs (or breasts) dry with paper towels. What is the best way to cook a sear? Season with salt and pepper. Don’t skimp on seasoning. It makes a huge difference.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Set aside. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side. Is it too late to cook a chicken until golden brown? Don’t overcrowd the pan. You may need to do this in batches. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Apples and Aromatics
Add the apples and onion to the same skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are tender. Remove from the heat and set aside. Apples are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and sage and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Is the smell worth it?
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
What is the best way to cook chicken broth in a large skillet? How do I nestle chicken in a skillet amongst the apples? What should I do if I have a large pot of water and some salt? Bring to simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes. If the chicken is cooked through, the apples are very tender. If the chicken is cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, check the temp.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
What is the best way to serve chicken with apples? Is it good on its own or served over rice? Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or sage, if desired. What are some good ways to serve apples over chicken?
What to serve it with?
What should you serve chicken with apples? What are some of the best ideas for a wedding?
What’s a good weeknight dinner?I love serving this with roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans. What are some good side dishes to serve with quinoa? Is it healthy to eat a salad?
For a Special Occasion:If you’re serving this for dinner party, consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice dish. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also adds to the richness of the dish. Don’t forget the bread! Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices.
For a Cozy Fall Meal:What are some comfort foods to serve with a side of polenta? What is a good Butternut Squash soup? Add a glass of apple cider or spiced wine and you have yourself an autumn feast. My family loves it with some soft dinner rolls!
What is a good recipe for Chicken with Apples? What is the best way to use leftovers throughout the week? Is it good to use it in salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for pizza?
How do I make a perfect chicken with apples?
How can I take my Chicken with Apples game to the next level?
How do I choose the right apple?As I mentioned earlier, certain apple varieties hold their shape better than others during cooking. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala are all great choices. Avoid apples that are too soft or mushy, as they will break down too much during cooking. Don’t be afraid to experiment! I’ve made this with a mix of sweet and tart apples, and it was delicious.
Don’t overcrowd the pan!When searing chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If you do, the chicken will steam instead of sear, and you won’t get that nice golden-brown crust. Work in batches if necessary. Also, make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken! If it’s not, the chicken will stick to the pan.
Deglaze the Pan: What is After searing the chicken and sautéing the apples, don’t forget to deglaze the pan with chicken broth. This is where all the flavor is! Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are called “fond,” and they add tons of depth to the dish.
Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are perfectly fine in this recipe, fresh herbs really take it to the next level. If you have access to fresh thyme and sage, I highly recommend using them. Just double the amount called for in the recipe. You can also add other herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, to customize the flavor to your liking.
Add a Touch of Acidity: A little bit of acidity can really brighten up the flavors of this dish. Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice towards the end of cooking. This will balance out the sweetness of the apples and add a nice tangy note.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). I always err on the side of undercooking, as the chicken will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
Let It Rest: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Chicken with Apples recipe stores really well. Here’s how to do it:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can start to grow pretty quickly, especially if it’s warm. If you’re serving it at a buffet or potluck, keep it warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the Chicken with Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down completely before refrigerating it. I like to use glass containers, as they don’t absorb odors or flavors from the food. Plus, they’re easy to clean!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken with Apples. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. I like to use freezer bags, as you can squeeze out the air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, you can use the microwave, oven, or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If using the oven, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If using the stovetop, heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you are adding a glaze, add it after reheating to preserve its texture and shine. No one wants a soggy glaze!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Chicken with Apples recipe that never fails to impress. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers, the way the flavors meld together, the smiles around the dinner table – it’s all pure magic. It’s quick enough for weeknights, but special enough for company! And if you love this recipe as much as my family does, I highly recommend checking out my other fall-inspired dishes, like my Butternut Squash Risotto or my Spiced Apple Cake. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!
Chicken with Apples Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts
- 2 medium Apples peeled and sliced
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken breasts on both sides.
- Add sliced apples to the skillet. Pour chicken broth over chicken and apples.
- Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and apples are tender.
