Name: Apple Cider Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds); 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 large yellow onion (sliced into thin half moons); 2 medium apples (cored and cut into 1/2-inch slices (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg; 3/4 cup apple cider; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tbsp whole grain mustard; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)

Ingredients for Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

For the chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Perfect for staying juicy and tender.

Kosher salt – Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors.
Black pepper – Freshly ground is always the way to go.

For the skillet

Olive oil – A good-quality one works wonders here.
Unsalted butter – Adds a rich, creamy depth to the dish.
Yellow onion – Sliced into thin half moons for sweetness and texture.

Apples – Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are ideal for that balance of tart and sweet.
Garlic – Minced finely to infuse the dish with its aromatic goodness.

Ground cinnamon – A warm, cozy spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
Ground nutmeg – Just a pinch to elevate the flavors.

For the sauce

Apple cider – The star of the show for that autumnal vibe.

Low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the dish perfectly balanced.
Whole grain mustard – Adds a tangy kick that ties everything together.
Heavy cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.

For garnish

Fresh thyme leaves – A lovely finishing touch that adds a pop of freshness.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Chicken Skillet recipe arranged beautifully

Cook Time for Chicken Skillet Recipe

I love how quickly this Apple Cider Chicken Skillet comes together, especially on busy nights when time is precious. In just 45 minutes total, you’ll have a complete fall chicken recipe that feels special enough for company.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The prep takes about 15 minutes, which gives you time to slice those apples and get everything ready. Then, the cooking time is a smooth 30 minutes where the magic happens – that gorgeous sear, the simmering sauce, and all those flavors coming together.

Need more quick chicken dinners? My cilantro lime chicken is another family favorite that’s ready in about the same time!

Step	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

How to Make Creamy Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry using paper towels, ensuring they are completely dry. Season both sides evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Sear to Perfection

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large cast iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 5–7 minutes per side until they develop a deep golden-brown crust. Transfer the chicken to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Apples and Onions

Reduce the heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in the same skillet. Add 1 large sliced yellow onion and 2 medium apple slices cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions and apples have softened and begun to caramelize.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Cook for 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in 3/4 cup apple cider and 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Whisk in 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Simmer Together

Return the seared chicken thighs and any accumulated juices to the skillet, nestling them into the apple and onion mixture. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until the sauce has reduced slightly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream and let the sauce warm through for 1–2 minutes until it becomes creamy and coats the back of a spoon. Remove the skillet from the heat, garnish with 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make this Apple Cider Chicken Skillet even more special. Here are my favorite ways to tweak this cozy fall chicken recipe to make it your own!

Flavor Swap: Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option – just reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.
Diet Tweak: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt. It still gives you that creamy texture we love!

Prep Fix: If you’re making this ahead, prep your onions and apples the night before and store them in an airtight container. It cuts your prep time in half!
Storage Tip: Leftovers keep beautifully for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of apple cider vinegar drink to brighten the flavors. For another comforting chicken option, try my hearty chicken soup on chilly days!

Nutrition and Health Benefits

When I’m cooking for my family, I always aim for dishes that are both delicious and nourishing. This Apple Cider Chicken Skillet balances protein, healthy fats, and the natural sweetness of seasonal apples beautifully.

Chicken thighs provide a great source of protein to keep you satisfied, while the olive oil and apples contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber. I love how the cinnamon and nutmeg not only add warmth but also bring their own antioxidant benefits to this fall chicken recipe.

For those watching their sodium intake, using low-sodium broth and controlling the salt seasoning makes this dish quite adaptable. If you’re looking for other healthy chicken options, my lemon chicken offers a bright, low-calorie alternative that’s equally satisfying.

According to experts at The New York Times, cooking with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs can enhance both flavor and nutrient retention. And if you’re craving more vegetable-forward meals, try my hearty chicken soup packed with nourishing ingredients.

A Lighter Version of Skillet Chicken Dinner

Sometimes we want all the cozy flavors of this Apple Cider Chicken Skillet but with a lighter touch. Over the years, I’ve perfected several tweaks that maintain the soul-warming quality while cutting back on calories.

For a leaner version, simply swap the chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook faster though, so reduce the searing time to about 4 minutes per side to prevent drying out. You can also replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option that still gives you that creamy texture we love.

If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider reducing the apple cider to 1/2 cup and adding an extra 1/4 cup of chicken broth. The apples still provide natural sweetness, and the whole grain mustard adds enough tang to balance everything beautifully.

For more healthy chicken inspiration, check out my grilled chicken breast recipe, which is always in my weeknight rotation. And if you love skillet meals, my lemon chicken tray bake offers another fuss-free option that’s big on flavor but light on cleanup.

Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets

When my cousin started managing her blood sugar, we worked together to adapt family recipes so she could still enjoy our cherished meals. It taught me that with a few thoughtful tweaks, this Apple Cider Chicken Skillet can be just as delicious while being more sugar-conscious and diabetic-friendly.

For a lower glycemic version, try using Granny Smith apples exclusively—they’re naturally tart and contain less sugar than sweeter varieties. You can also reduce the apple cider to 1/2 cup and add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to maintain that tangy apple flavor without the extra sugar.

If you’re using a sugar alternative, consider adding it at the end to taste rather than during cooking, as some natural sweeteners can behave differently when heated. And remember, portion control is your friend—serve this over cauliflower rice or with extra vegetables to create a balanced plate that supports glycemic control.

How to Serve Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

I’ll never forget the first time I served this dish to my extended family during our annual autumn gathering. The way the savory-sweet aromas filled our kitchen created instant comfort, and within minutes, everyone was gathered around the skillet, eager to dig in. There’s something magical about how food brings people together, especially when it’s served straight from the pan.

Apple Cider Chicken Skillet served family-style with seasonal sides

For a complete meal, I love pairing this creamy chicken skillet with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles that soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors, and roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans make excellent vegetable sides that complement the autumnal vibe.

If you’re serving a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and using my chicken burger technique for prepping ingredients ahead of time. And for those who enjoy a refreshing drink alongside, my grapefruit apple cider vinegar drink offers a tart, refreshing counterpoint to the savory-sweet notes of the dish.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a fall gathering, this Apple Cider Chicken Skillet always feels special served family-style right at the table. The communal experience of sharing from one pan somehow makes everything taste even better.

Mistakes to Avoid

I’ll never forget the first time I tried making this skillet chicken dinner for friends—I rushed the sear and ended up with pale, flabby skin that just didn’t hold up to the rich sauce. We all still ate it happily, but I learned that taking your time with each step makes all the difference.

One common mistake is overcrowding the pan. If you add too many chicken thighs at once, they steam instead of sear, and you miss out on that beautiful golden crust. I always cook in batches, giving each piece plenty of room to breathe. And if you love skillet meals, my cilantro lime chicken uses a similar technique for perfectly seared chicken every time.

Another misstep is boiling the sauce. Once you add the apple cider and cream, keep the heat gentle—a vigorous simmer can cause the dairy to curdle and the sauce to break. Let it bubble lightly until it just coats the back of a spoon. According to experts at The New York Times, maintaining control over your heat is key to achieving silky pan sauces.

Finally, don’t skip resting the chicken before serving. Those few minutes let the juices redistribute, so each bite of your Apple Cider Chicken Skillet stays moist and tender. For another resting-essential dish, try my BBQ chicken breasts—they prove patience always pays off in flavor.

How to Store Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

My grandmother always said that some dishes taste even better the next day, and this Apple Cider Chicken Skillet is one of them. I love making a double batch on Sunday so we can enjoy it again on busy weeknights—the flavors deepen beautifully as they mingle in the fridge.

Let the skillet cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the chicken. If the sauce has thickened too much, just splash in a little broth or apple cider to loosen it up.

This creamy chicken skillet also freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. I portion it into meal-sized containers so I can pull out just what we need. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. If you’re looking for more make-ahead meals, my chicken soup recipe is another freezer-friendly favorite that always brings comfort on hectic days.

For that extra touch of freshness, try serving leftovers over a bed of crisp apple cider vinegar coleslaw. The tangy crunch makes the savory-sweet chicken feel completely new again.

Try This Apple Cider Chicken Skillet Yourself

There’s a reason this Apple Cider Chicken Skillet has become such a cherished recipe in our home—it’s the kind of meal that feels both special and simple, perfect for a Tuesday night dinner or a casual gathering with friends. I hope it finds its way to your table and becomes a part of your own family traditions.

If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy chicken skillet recipes, try my bright and zesty lemon chicken or these juicy chicken burgers for a fun twist. And for another taste of autumn, my Mexican sweet potato chicken soup brings warmth and spice in every spoonful.

I’d love to hear how your Apple Cider Chicken Skillet turns out. Share your stories, your twists, your moments around the table—because that’s what turns a recipe into a memory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Apple cider chicken skillet recipe?

This entire article walks you through my favorite Apple Cider Chicken Skillet recipe step by step! You’ll find the full ingredient list and instructions in the earlier sections, along with tips for making it just right.

Easy apple cider chicken skillet?

Yes, this is one of those easy skillet chicken dinners that comes together in one pan with minimal fuss. The sauce makes itself while the chicken cooks, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.

Apple cider chicken skillet oven?

While this recipe is cooked entirely on the stovetop, you can finish it in the oven if you prefer. Just transfer the skillet to a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes after adding the cream to heat through evenly.

Apple cider chicken skillet slow cooker?

I haven’t tested this specific recipe in a slow cooker, but for similar set-and-forget meals, my Brazilian chicken recipe is a great hands-off option full of vibrant flavor.

Baked apple cider chicken?

For a baked version, try seasoning chicken pieces with apple cider vinegar, herbs, and spices, then roasting until golden. The result is less saucy but equally delicious alongside roasted apples and onions.

Apple cider chicken recipe?

You’re in the right place! This entire post is dedicated to my go-to apple cider chicken recipe—a one-pan wonder that’s saucy, sweet, and savory all at once.

Apple cider chicken breast?

You can absolutely use chicken breast in this recipe—just reduce the searing time to about 4 minutes per side to keep it from drying out. For more lean chicken ideas, check out my grilled chicken breast recipe.

Apple cider glazed chicken recipe?

This skillet recipe creates a beautiful apple cider glaze as it reduces. If you want even more glaze, try doubling the apple cider and letting it simmer until thick and syrupy before adding the cream.

Chicken with apples and onions?

That’s exactly what this dish is! Tender chicken thighs cooked with sweet onions and crisp apples in a creamy cider sauce—it’s the ultimate fall chicken recipe.

Chicken and apple casserole?

While this is a stovetop skillet recipe, you can easily turn it into a baked casserole by transferring it to a baking dish, topping with breadcrumbs, and baking until bubbly and golden on top.

More Cozy Skillet Dinners You’ll Love

If this apple cider chicken skillet hit the spot, here are a few more one-pan wonders that keep weeknights easy and full of flavor.

Lemon Herb Tray Bake Chicken – Bright, zesty, and packed with tender potatoes and roasted garlic.

Brazilian Citrus Chicken – A tangy, slightly spicy chicken dish that brings tropical vibes to your dinner table.

SpSweet Potato & Chicken Soup – Hearty, comforting, and loaded with Southwest spices.

Cinnamon Apple Snack Bars – Sweet, chewy, and perfect with coffee or packed in lunches.

Easy Apple Cider Chicken Skillet Recipe