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Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

Harvest Chicken Skillet with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

Experience the cozy and comforting flavors of autumn with this easy Harvest Chicken Skillet featuring tender boneless chicken thighs, naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes, and crisp apples. Enhanced with warm spices like cinnamon and smoked paprika, fresh thyme, and a touch of garlic and onion, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Ready in under 40 minutes, it offers a wholesome, balanced, and vibrant plate that celebrates the best harvest season ingredients with minimal cleanup.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs, skin removed

Vegetables & Fruits

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and sliced into wedges
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs & Spices

  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Fats & Liquids

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (ensure gluten-free if needed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Core and slice the apples into wedges. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and smoked paprika. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the Aromatics and Veggies: In the same skillet, add a bit more butter or olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until they begin to soften.
  4. Incorporate Apples and Herbs: Add the apple wedges and sprinkle fresh thyme over the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth to add moisture and depth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and flavors.
  5. Return Chicken and Simmer: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the vegetables and apples. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) and the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
  6. Final Touches: Remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to evaporate any excess liquid, allowing the flavors to concentrate. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry before searing ensures a perfect golden crust.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for even cooking and juicy results.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when searing chicken; sear in batches if necessary to promote caramelization.
  • Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to ensure they hold their shape when cooked.
  • Add fresh thyme late in the cooking process to retain its bright herbal aroma.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with extra olive oil or plant-based butter.
  • To add heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or red chili flakes during seasoning.
  • Substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash or carrots for different textures.
  • Use gluten-free chicken broth to keep the dish safe for gluten sensitivity.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing and Simmering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 380 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: Harvest Chicken Skillet, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Fall Recipe, One-Pan Meal, Autumn Dinner, Gluten Free, Easy Weeknight Dinner