Description
This Apple Cider Chicken Skillet recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a flavorful pan sauce made with fresh apples, shallots, rosemary, thyme, and a creamy apple cider-infused sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish offers a wonderful balance of savory and sweet, ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Skillet Sauce and Sauté
- 2 apples, cored and cut into approximately 1/2 inch thick wedges
- 1 cup sliced shallots or onion
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium heat. Swirl to coat the pan evenly, then place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and set it on a plate, tented with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté Apples and Shallots: Wipe out the skillet to remove any residue and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced shallots, apple wedges, rosemary, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for approximately 7-9 minutes until the apples soften and the shallots become translucent.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider, and Dijon mustard into the skillet. Stir well to dissolve the mustard completely. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the heavy cream. Adjust seasoning to taste and stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Finish the Dish: Return the cooked chicken breasts along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet. Simmer everything together for another 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with additional fresh thyme and rosemary before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Use fresh herbs for best flavor, but dried can be substituted if needed (use 1/3 the amount).
- Apples such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala work well for their sweetness and texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or omit entirely.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
