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Cast iron skillet filled with golden-seared chicken pieces and caramelized apple slices swimming in a rich, savory-sweet cider sauce, garnished with fresh thyme.

Apple Orchard Chicken

A cozy fall-inspired chicken dish simmered with apples, apple cider, Dijon mustard, and warm spices for a sweet and savory family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken & Sauce
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 apples thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Gala)
  • 1 small onion thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup apple cider non-alcoholic
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the onions and apples. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
  4. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  6. Stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, and cinnamon. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes until fully cooked.
  8. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious apple cider sauce.