As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like curling up in the kitchen with the warm aroma of a hearty meal in the air. This Creamy Mustard Maple Chicken Skillet with Apples is my go-to recipe for those cozy evenings; it delights with a perfect harmony of tender chicken, sweet apples, and creamy sauce—all made in just one pan! Not only is this dish incredibly quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also gluten-free, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser for any diet. In just about 30 minutes, you can savor a comforting dish that impresses on every level. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this Apple Chicken Skillet special?
Quick and Easy: You can whip this dish up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, letting you enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing multiple pots and pans.
Flavorful Fusion: The marriage of sweet apples and savory chicken in a creamy mustard maple sauce offers a delightful taste experience.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap apples for pears or toss in dried cranberries for extra yum! For another delicious option, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for variety.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Its rich flavors and inviting aromas make it an instant hit with family and friends. Say goodbye to fast food—this warm, fulfilling meal will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Apple Chicken Skillet Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (pounded thin) – A tender protein that forms the base of your delicious Apple Chicken Skillet; thighs add extra moisture.
• 2 tablespoons flour (gluten-free if needed) – Creates a crispy sear on the chicken; substitute with almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free version.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish; adjust to taste as preferred.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Provides fat for cooking the chicken; can be substituted with butter for a richer profile.
For the Sauce and Seasoning
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced) – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used as a milder alternative.
• 2 cloves garlic (chopped) – Imparts aromatic flavors and elevates the overall dish.
• 1 teaspoon thyme (chopped; or 1/2 teaspoon dried) – An herb providing earthy notes; fresh is preferred, but dried can be used as a substitute.
• 1 teaspoon rosemary (chopped; or 1/2 teaspoon dried) – Contributes a fragrant, woodsy flavor to the sauce.
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon (optional) – Enhances warmth in the sauce, lending a cozy autumn feel.
For the Saucy Goodness
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine) – Used for deglazing the pan and adding moisture; broth adds depth, and wine can elevate flavor.
• 1/2 cup apple cider (soft) (or apple juice) – Brings sweetness and acidity, balancing the rich flavors beautifully.
• 1/4 cup heavy/whipping cream – Creates that luscious, creamy texture; consider dairy-free cream if needed.
• 1/2 tablespoon dijon mustard – Adds a tangy punch; omit if you prefer a milder taste, but increase the vinegar for balance.
• 1/2 tablespoon grainy mustard – Introduces additional texture and richness to the creamy sauce.
• 1/2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Provides acidity to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or brown sugar) – Sweetens the dish and enhances the flavor profile; adjust to taste as needed.
For the Fruity Finish
• 2 large apples (cored and cut into thick slices) – Infuses sweetness and a delightful texture; firm varieties like Granny Smith are recommended for cooking.
Embrace the comforts of fall with this delicious Apple Chicken Skillet that’s sure to delight your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Mustard Maple Chicken Skillet with Apples
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the pound of boneless chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Dust each piece lightly with flour, shaking off the excess, which will help create a crispy sear. This process ensures our chicken for the Apple Chicken Skillet is well-flavored and ready to be cooked.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces to the pan. Sear them for about 4-6 minutes on each side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced large onion. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your Creamy Mustard Maple Chicken Skillet, so don’t rush—let those sweet aromas fill your kitchen!
Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs
Next, toss in 2 chopped cloves of garlic along with 1 teaspoon of chopped thyme and 1 teaspoon of chopped rosemary. If using dried herbs, remember to halve the quantity. Cook everything for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant, and the herbs begin to release their delightful aromas.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now it’s time to mix in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of apple cider. Follow this with 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 tablespoon of dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Stir until all the ingredients are combined and the mixture begins to bubble gently. This is the heart of your Apple Chicken Skillet sauce, so get ready for some deliciousness!
Step 6: Combine with Chicken and Apples
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and add the 2 large apple slices. Ensure they’re well coated in that lovely sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the apples to soften while the chicken absorbs the wonderful flavors of the sauce.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
After simmering, check that the apples are tender, and the chicken is heated through. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt or pepper if needed. Serve your delightful Creamy Mustard Maple Chicken Skillet with Apples over a bed of rice or quinoa, allowing everyone to enjoy this cozy, hearty meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Mustard Maple Chicken Skillet with Apples are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful homemade meal with minimal effort on busy evenings! You can season and dust the chicken with flour up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can chop the onions, garlic, and herbs beforehand, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, quickly sauté the prepped ingredients, sear the chicken, and combine everything in the skillet. This way, you’ll have all the comforting flavors just as delicious as if made fresh, saving you precious time during the week!
Apple Chicken Skillet Variations & Substitutions
Get creative and make this Apple Chicken Skillet uniquely yours with these delicious variations and substitutions!
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Substitute Pears: Swap apples for ripe pears for a different sweet profile while keeping that lovely softness in your dish.
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Add Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries for a delightful burst of tart sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
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Spicy Twist: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce—balance the sweetness beautifully!
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Herb Alternatives: Try using fresh sage or marjoram instead of thyme and rosemary for a fragrant twist. Both herbs offer warm, earthy undertones.
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Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with creamy coconut milk or coconut cream. This adds a tropical twist while keeping it rich!
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Cheesy Delight: Top your finished skillet with shredded cheddar cheese or goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Melting cheese creates a creamy texture that pairs perfectly!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach, kale, or butternut squash cubes for an added nutritional punch—the more the merrier!
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Cider Alternatives: If you’re out of apple cider, use white grape juice or orange juice to maintain that sweet tang—delightfully versatile!
No matter how you choose to customize, this comforting dish radiates warmth perfect for any dinner table. For another tempting option, don’t miss my Sticky Pineapple Chicken—it’s a real crowd-pleaser too!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Chicken Skillet
Fridge: Leftover Apple Chicken Skillet can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Apple Chicken Skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool, then wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture of the sauce.
Note: Always check for freshness before consuming and enjoy your delightful Apple Chicken Skillet once more!
Expert Tips for Apple Chicken Skillet
• Fresh Is Best: Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary provide vibrant flavors; if you must use dried, be sure to halve the amount for the best results.
• Adjusting Mustard Flavor: If mustard isn’t your thing, feel free to omit it; just increase the apple cider vinegar slightly for a nice flavor balance in the Apple Chicken Skillet.
• Thicken the Sauce: For a richer sauce, consider adding a bit more cream or a cornstarch slurry to thicken it consistently without compromising flavors.
• Flavor Variations: Want to mix things up? Toss in some dried cranberries or a splash of hot sauce for extra zing!
• Cookware Tip: Using a heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and helps avoid any burning while creating that beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
• Storage Reminder: Leftovers last up to 3 days in the fridge; reheat on the stove to maintain the creamy texture of your delicious Apple Chicken Skillet.
What to Serve with Creamy Mustard Maple Chicken Skillet with Apples
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this one-pan meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes is ideal for soaking up that luscious sauce, creating a comforting, filling combo.
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Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a crisp contrast, offering freshness that balances the creamy dish beautifully.
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Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing acidity, enhancing the overall experience of each bite.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This nutritious grain serves as a lovely base, absorbing flavors while contributing a nutty undertone that pairs well with the chicken.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every bit of creamy sauce, making each meal feel like an indulgence.
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Apple Crisp: For a sweet finish, an apple crisp adds a delightful crunch and echoes the apple flavor in the dish, creating a harmonious dessert pairing.
Let these sides elevate your culinary experience as you savor the warmth of your Apple Chicken Skillet!
Apple Chicken Skillet Recipe FAQs
How should I select ripe apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing apples, look for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They should feel crisp and free of bruises or dark spots. It’s best to avoid any apples that have soft spots or signs of over-ripeness, as they won’t hold up well when cooked.
How long can I store leftover Apple Chicken Skillet?
Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing it to lock in freshness. To preserve the flavors, I recommend reheating it gently on the stove instead of the microwave.
Can I freeze the Apple Chicken Skillet for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove!
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard—any substitutes?
No worries! If you’re out of Dijon mustard, you can skip it altogether and increase the apple cider vinegar slightly to maintain an acidic balance in your sauce. Alternatively, you could use yellow mustard, but for a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce for a delightful kick!
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Very! The Apple Chicken Skillet can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour to dust the chicken. Additionally, be sure to choose gluten-free chicken broth to maintain the recipe’s integrity. This way, everyone can enjoy the warm, comforting flavors without worry!
Delicious Apple Chicken Skillet in Creamy Maple Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by seasoning the pound of boneless chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Dust each piece lightly with flour, shaking off the excess.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces. Sear for about 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Next, toss in the chopped garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix in chicken broth and apple cider, followed by heavy cream, dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Stir until combined and bubbly.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet and add apple slices, coating them well in the sauce. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Check that the apples are tender and chicken is heated through. Serve over rice or quinoa.
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