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Baked Chicken with Apples

Plate of baked chicken with apples, green beans, and fresh rosemary garnish.

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Baked Chicken with Apples is a cozy, one-skillet fall recipe featuring juicy chicken thighs, tender apples, and a sweet-savory apple cider sauce seasoned with warm spices. Perfect for weeknights or holiday meals.

Ingredients

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  • 1 lb (454g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 cups (250g) apple slices, 1/4-inch thick (no need to peel)
  • 1/3 cup (40g) chopped shallots or yellow onion
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) apple cider (not vinegar)
  • Optional: Fresh thyme and rosemary for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine 3/4 tsp salt, coriander, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, and pepper. Sprinkle over both sides of the chicken thighs.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and cook chicken for about 5 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and set aside.
  3. Add butter to the skillet (do not wipe clean), swirl to coat, then add brown sugar, apple slices, and shallots. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 tsp salt and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
  4. Pour in apple cider and cook another 5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and apples are crisp-tender.
  5. Return chicken to skillet and cook 2 more minutes to warm through. Optionally bake in oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes for added caramelization.
  6. Spoon apple mixture and sauce over chicken and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary before serving.

Notes

  • Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for best flavor.
  • Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out more easily.
  • Freeze extra apple cider in cubes to enjoy this recipe year-round.
  • To reheat, use stovetop or microwave. Sauce will come back together once warmed.

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