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As the days get shorter and a crispness fills the air, I find myself craving the comforting flavors of fall. One evening, I decided to create something that captured that essence—the result was my One-Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet. The first time I made it, the aroma of caramelized apples and savory chicken blended effortlessly, wrapping my kitchen in warmth.

This dish is a delightful one-pan wonder that marries juicy chicken thighs with tender potatoes and seasonal veggies, all kissed with a maple-Dijon apple cider glaze. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or a leisurely Sunday dinner, ensuring you enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Best of all, it’s gluten-free and packed with high protein, making it an excellent choice for everyone at the dining table. Let’s dive into this recipe that celebrates the cozy flavors of fall and transforms your mealtime into a comforting experience!

Why is One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pan wonder is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for all levels of home cooks.
Cozy Fall Flavors: The combination of caramelized apples, juicy chicken, and fragrant herbs brings the essence of autumn to your table.
Time-Saving: No need for multiple pots; everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup.
Healthy & Wholesome: With gluten-free ingredients and high-protein chicken, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, the vibrant colors and rich aromas will entice everyone to dig in.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal veggies or side dishes for a truly personalized meal experience.

One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet Ingredients

For the Marinade

Apple Cider – Provides sweetness and acidity; substitute with apple juice if necessary.
Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and flavor; can replace with avocado oil for a lighter option.
Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess to the marinade; honey mustard can work as a milder alternative.
Maple Syrup – Sweetens the glaze naturally; agave syrup can be a vegan substitute.
Apple Cider Vinegar – For acidity that balances sweet spices; white vinegar can be used if apple cider vinegar is unavailable.
Garlic (minced) – Enhances flavor and aroma; fresh garlic is best, though garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Fresh Rosemary – Adds a fragrant herbaceous note; dried rosemary can be used but reduce to 1 tsp.
Salt + Black Pepper – Essential seasoning to taste; adjust according to dietary restrictions.

For the Main Dish

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Provide juiciness and flavor; can substitute with chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time.
Medium Carrots – Contributes sweetness and texture; yellow squash can be a colorful alternative.
Red Onion – Adds sweetness when caramelized; shallots can replace red onion if preferred.
Apple – Provides additional sweetness; best options are Honeycrisp or Pink Lady. Pear can be used for a different flavor profile.
Baby Gold or Yukon Potatoes – Adds heartiness to the dish; sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor and nutrition boost.

For Serving

Flaky Sea Salt – For finishing touch to enhance flavors; regular salt can be substituted.
Lemon Wedges – Used for serving to brighten flavors; lime juice can be an alternative.
Fresh Thyme (for garnish) – Optional garnish that adds color and flavor.

Get ready to enjoy this One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet that beautifully balances sweet and savory, perfect for cozy fall nights!

How to Make One-Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for roasting. This initial step is vital for achieving tender chicken and beautifully cooked vegetables.
Whisk Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine apple cider, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
Marinate Chicken:
Pour the marinade over the boneless skinless chicken thighs in a shallow dish. Toss gently to coat, and let the chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
Sear Potatoes:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the halved baby gold or Yukon potatoes cut-side down. Cook for 6-8 minutes, until golden brown and slightly softened, then transfer them to a plate.
Sear Chicken:
Using the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sear each chicken thigh for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside with the potatoes.
Cook Veggies:
Add the chopped carrots and sliced red onion to the skillet, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the chopped apples and pour the marinade over everything, scraping up any delicious brown bits from the bottom.
Combine and Roast:
Nestle the chicken, potatoes, and sautéed vegetables together in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and potatoes are tender.
Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt over the top, and serve with fresh lemon juice drizzled over for brightness.

Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme for an added touch of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet?

Elevate your cozy fall meal with delicious side dishes that perfectly balance the sweet and savory notes of this one-pan wonder.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture harmonizes beautifully with the tender chicken and enhances the comforting vibe of your dinner.
Garlicky Green Beans: Their crispness adds a fresh contrast, making them a delightful addition next to the caramelized flavors of the skillet.
Apple Walnut Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tart apples, and crunchy walnuts provides a bright, tangy complement to the savory chicken.
Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy and warm, these are perfect for mopping up the delicious pan juices—an irresistible addition to any meal!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor and crunchy texture offer a wonderful balance to the sweetness of the apples and glaze.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Add a touch of sweetness that echoes the dish, while their vibrant color brings life to your autumn table.
Crisp Cider: A glass of apple cider echoes the flavors in your dish, creating a perfect pairing for a cozy dining experience this fall.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: To finish off your meal on a sweet note, these deliciously spiced muffins are a comforting treat that captures the essence of the season.

Embrace the spirit of autumn by adding these delightful pairings to your dinner table!

Make Ahead Options

These One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the apple cider marinade up to 24 hours in advance (refrigerate in an airtight container), allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, chop your vegetables—carrots, potatoes, apples, and onions—up to 3 days ahead and store them in separate containers in the fridge to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to prepare dinner, simply follow the remaining cooking steps: sear the chicken and potatoes, sauté your veggies, and roast everything together for a wholesome meal that’s just as delicious as when made fresh. This approach saves you time during busy weeknights while ensuring a comforting and flavorful dinner awaits!

Storage Tips for One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the flavors intact and ready for quick reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, seal the cooked chicken and veggies in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months to preserve freshness.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Original Flavor: For the best taste experience, consume the One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet within the recommended timeframes to avoid compromising flavor and texture.

One-Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet Variations

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute any cream-based ingredients with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free option.
Adding coconut cream will give a lovely nutty flavor while ensuring a smooth sauce.
Cranberry Kick: Toss in fresh or dried cranberries for an exciting pop of tartness that complements the sweetness of the apples.
A handful of cranberries will add a lovely color contrast and an extra layer of flavor.
Herbier Delight: Swap rosemary for thyme or sage for a different aromatic experience that pairs beautifully with fall flavors.
Using sage, in particular, will enhance the savory elements, bringing a warm, earthy note to your dish.
Vegetable Variety: Mix in seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, parsnips, or butternut squash for added nutrition and heartiness.
Each vegetable will contribute unique textures and flavors, making every bite a new adventure.
Kick of Heat: Add red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to spice things up; it’ll give the dish an exciting kick without overwhelming it.
Just a pinch can transform your meal, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the glaze.
Sweet Potato Switch: Replace baby gold or Yukon potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter taste and added nutrients.
Sweet potatoes will not only enhance the sweetness but also add beautiful color to your skillet.
Fruit Fusion: Experiment by incorporating pears or figs alongside the apples for a unique twist on flavor and sweetness.
The addition of figs brings a rich, caramel-like taste, while pears add a subtle floral note to the dish.
Gluten-Free Noodles: Serve this dish over gluten-free noodles or brown rice for an extra filling meal that’s perfect for hearty appetites.
This will soak up the delicious sauce and create a lovely base that complements the main ingredients.

Expert Tips for One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

Choose Quality Chicken: Use boneless, skinless thighs for maximum juiciness. Chicken breasts are leaner but can dry out if overcooked.
Marinating Time: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor; however, don’t exceed 30 minutes to avoid over-tenderizing.
Skillet Safety: Ensure your skillet is truly oven-safe, especially with cast iron, to prevent any accidents while roasting.
Even Cuts: Cut your potatoes and veggies into similar sizes for uniform cooking; this helps avoid undercooked or mushy pieces.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving and feel free to adjust salt or lemon juice to elevate the flavors of your One Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet.

One-Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using Honeycrisp or Pink Lady apples as they provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, pears can also add an intriguing flavor profile to the dish!

How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing for the best taste and texture.

Can I freeze the One-Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken and veggies in airtight, freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. To freeze, simply let the dish cool, then portion it out before sealing tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

What if my chicken is dry after cooking?
If you find that your chicken is dry, it could be because it was cooked too long. I recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking. Also, remember to marinate the chicken adequately to help keep it moist and flavorful.

Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This One-Pan Apple Cider Chicken Skillet is gluten-free and can easily be modified for dairy-free diets as well. Just be sure to check for any hidden gluten ingredients in your marinade and chicken stock.

What vegetables can I substitute if I don’t have the ones listed?
Feel free to get creative! You can use sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, or yellow squash instead of the carrots and onions. Just remember to cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking!