Apple Maple Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Apple Maple Chicken is a delicious blend of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are cooked with fresh apples and a touch of maple syrup, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that’s simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups apples, cored and sliced (about 2 medium apples)
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional for added brightness)
• 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the sliced apples and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Step 4: Pour in the maple syrup and chicken broth, then add the cinnamon. Stir to combine and let it bubble for about 2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the apples. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Step 6: If desired, drizzle the lemon juice over the chicken just before serving for added brightness.
7. Step 7: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if using, and serve warm on a platter.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji for balanced flavor.
• Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste or to make it vegetarian using plant-based chicken alternatives.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Serve with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Storage

Store leftover Apple Maple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier. Adjust cooking time slightly, cooking thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side until done.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The apples and maple syrup will still provide a lovely sweet-savory flavor.

Apple Maple Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 56 reviews

This Apple Maple Chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a sweet and savory sauce made from fresh apples, maple syrup, and warm cinnamon. Sautéed to golden perfection and simmered in a flavorful broth, it offers a comforting and elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Apple Maple Sauce

• 2 cups apples, cored and sliced (about 2 medium apples)
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional for added brightness)
• 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare and season chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
2. Cook chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté apples: In the same skillet, add the sliced apples and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften, absorbing the flavors left in the pan.
4. Add sauce ingredients: Pour in the maple syrup and chicken broth, then sprinkle the cinnamon over the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients and let the sauce bubble gently for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and meld flavors.
5. Simmer chicken with sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the softened apples. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the chicken to soak in the sauce and the sauce to thicken to a glaze consistency.
6. Finish and serve: Optionally drizzle fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving to add brightness and complexity. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch. Serve warm on a platter for a delightful meal.

Notes

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor.
• Adjust maple syrup level for desired sweetness.
• Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking internal temperature.
• Fresh thyme adds aroma but can be omitted if unavailable.
• Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: apple maple chicken, chicken recipe, stovetop chicken, maple syrup chicken, apple chicken skillet