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Apple Maple Chicken 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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