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As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there's something inherently comforting about cozying up with a warm, hearty meal. The Apple Cider Chicken Skillet is a dish that perfectly embodies the essence of fall, blending savory and sweet flavors to create a delightful culinary experience. This one-pan recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings together the wholesome goodness of chicken, apples, and aromatic spices, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions.

Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

Experience the warmth of autumn with this Apple Cider Chicken Skillet, a one-pan wonder that blends savory chicken, sweet apples, and aromatic spices. Perfect for cozy family dinners, this easy-to-make dish captures the essence of fall with its rich flavors and inviting aroma. Sear juicy chicken breasts, sauté onions and garlic, and let everything simmer in a luscious apple cider sauce. Enjoy a comforting meal that's not only delicious but also nutritious!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup apple cider (ensure it's not vinegar)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium apples, cored and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: 1/2 cup chicken broth for added sauce

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating.

    Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and turn translucent. Add the minced garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant and golden.

        Add Apples and Spices: Incorporate the sliced apples, stirring in the ground cinnamon and dried thyme. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the apples just start to soften, releasing their natural juices.

          Deglaze with Cider: Carefully pour the apple cider (and chicken broth if desired) into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Stir in the Dijon mustard until everything is well combined.

            Return the Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet among the apples and onions. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together while the sauce thickens.

              Finish and Serve: Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm, alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings

                  Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken on a platter, drizzling the apple-cider sauce over the top, and garnish with additional parsley for a vibrant touch.