Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

Experience the cozy, comforting taste of fall with this easy Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples. This dish combines tender chicken, naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes, and crisp apples to create a vibrant, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. The blend of savory and sweet flavors paired with a touch of warming spices makes this skillet a true autumn favorite you’ll want to cook again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings without compromising flavor.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Capitalizes on sweet potatoes and apples, highlighting the best tastes of harvest time.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste by cooking everything together in a single skillet.
• Balanced Nutritious Meal: Combines lean protein, vitamins, and fiber for a wholesome dinner experience.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customized with your favorite spices or vegetables to suit any palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples lies in its simple and wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor, adding texture, or bringing an inviting color to the dish.

• Boneless Chicken Thighs: Juicy and tender, these provide rich flavor and remain moist throughout cooking.
• Sweet Potatoes: Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture after roasting.
• Crisp Apples: Introduces a refreshing, tangy contrast that brightens the skillet.
• Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that deepen the flavor profile with warm, savory notes.
• Fresh Thyme: Offers an earthy herbal touch that perfectly complements chicken and fall produce.
• Olive Oil and Butter: Used for sauteing and roasting, these fats enhance richness and help develop a golden crust.
• Cinnamon and Smoked Paprika: Spice duo that adds warmth and subtle smokiness without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and elevate all the flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and depth, helping the chicken stay juicy and the veggies tender.

Variations for Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

This recipe’s flexibility means you can easily adapt it to suit your needs or pantry availability. Whether you want to enhance flavors, change textures, or cater to dietary preferences, the possibilities are endless.

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with hearty chickpeas or firm tofu for a plant-based alternative.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to introduce subtle heat.
• Different Herbs: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage depending on what you have fresh on hand.
• Swap Sweet Potatoes: Use butternut squash or carrots for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure broth is gluten-free and double-check all seasonings to keep it safe for gluten sensitivity.

How to Make Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces, then core and slice the apples into wedges. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. Pat the chicken thighs dry to ensure a nice sear.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and smoked paprika, then cook it undisturbed until golden brown on one side, about 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics and Veggies

In the same skillet, add a little more butter or oil if needed. Toss in the onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Then add the sweet potatoes and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to become tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Apples and Herbs

Add the apple slices and sprinkle fresh thyme throughout the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth to add moisture and help everything cook through. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.

Step 5: Return Chicken and Simmer

Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet atop the vegetables and apples. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low, letting it simmer about 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove the lid, raise the heat slightly to evaporate any excess liquid, allowing the flavors to concentrate. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

• Dry the Chicken Well: Patting the meat dry ensures a perfect golden crust during searing.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps everything cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing chicken in batches if needed prevents steaming and promotes caramelization.
• Choose Firm Apples: Use crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith that hold shape when cooked.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Adding fresh thyme late keeps the herbal aroma bright and fresh.

How to Serve Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves on top for a burst of color and freshness. A small drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a splash of apple cider vinegar adds a bright finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This skillet meal is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a full fall feast. Warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls work beautifully for soaking up the delicious pan juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Harvest Chicken Skillet right from the pan for a rustic, family-style vibe or arrange portions over creamy mashed cauliflower or a bed of wild rice for a more elegant presentation. Adding a small bowl of homemade cranberry sauce on the side adds a festive seasonal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the skillet to cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring flavors remain fresh and textures enjoyable.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the dish seems dry, stirring occasionally to keep the chicken juicy and the sweet potatoes tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts work fine, but they cook faster and can dry out, so reduce cooking time and keep an eye on moisture levels.

Are sweet potatoes and regular potatoes interchangeable?

You can substitute regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that complements the apples and spices in this recipe beautifully.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply replace butter with extra olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative without altering flavor or texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples stores well and reheats nicely, making it an excellent choice for prepping meals ahead of time.

What kind of apples are best for this recipe?

Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji hold their shape and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This easy Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples offers a delightful medley of autumn flavors in a quick and straightforward dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, its heartwarming taste and simple preparation make it a weeknight winner you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting spirit of harvest in every bite.

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