Name: Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 apple, cored and sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji); ½ red onion, sliced; 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried); 1 tsp fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried); ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

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If you’re craving a meal that tastes like the heart of the season, you’ve got to try this Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe. It’s packed with the perfect harmony of tender chicken, sweet roasted potatoes, crisp apples, and a rich maple Dijon glaze that ties everything together. In just under 40 minutes, you get a cozy, comforting dish that feels both special and satisfying. Whether you’re dinner is for yourself, family, or friends, this skillet dinner truly celebrates fall flavors in the best way possible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white round plate at the bottom center with two light beige raw chicken pieces and three strips of raw bacon with pink and white layers placed side by side. Above and slightly to the left is a white bowl filled with halved bright green Brussels sprouts. To the right of this bowl at the top center is a smaller white bowl filled with light brown walnut halves. To the right of the walnuts is another small white bowl holding dark red dried cranberries. On the right side is a white bowl filled with bright orange chopped sweet potato cubes. Below the sweet potatoes near the bottom right corner is a whole yellow onion resting on a yellow and white checkered cloth. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started is a breeze because the ingredients for the Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe are simple yet incredibly effective. Each one plays a unique role, whether it’s adding moisture, sweetness, a burst of freshness, or that savory depth that makes every bite memorable.

2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for perfectly searing the chicken to a golden brown without sticking.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and juicy, these form the hearty protein base of the dish.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Basic seasoning that brings out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
1 sweet potato, peeled and diced: Adds a lovely sweetness and soft texture that balances the savory elements.
1 apple, cored and sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji works well): Brings a crisp, tart bite that brightens the skillet.
½ red onion, sliced: Provides a mild onion flavor and beautiful color contrast.
1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved: Adds an earthy crunch and vibrant green to the mix.
2 tbsp butter: Melts into the veggies and apples, enriching the dish with creamy goodness.
2 tbsp maple syrup: The star ingredient in the glaze, giving everything a silky, sweet finish.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle tang that balances sweetness and adds depth.
1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried): Adds an herby, fragrant note that screams fall freshness.
1 tsp fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried): Gives a piney aroma that complements the chicken perfectly.
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the skillet moist and helps combine all the flavors while cooking.

How to Make Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, which helps build that fundamental flavor layer. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until you achieve a beautiful golden crust. This step locks in juices and gives the chicken a mouthwatering texture. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate–don’t clean the skillet, because the browned bits are flavor gold for the next steps.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, melt the butter. Toss in the diced sweet potato, sliced red onion, and halved Brussels sprouts. Sauté them gently for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the veggies to soften just enough to release their flavors but still maintain a bit of bite for texture contrast. These autumn vegetables add vibrant colors and natural sweetness, enhancing the dish’s comforting vibe.

Step 3: Add Apples and Prepare the Glaze

Next, stir in the apple slices along with the maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Sprinkle the fresh thyme and rosemary right on top. Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the glaze to coat the fruit and veggies evenly. This step is where the flavors meld beautifully – the maple syrup’s sweetness balances out the tang of Dijon, while the herbs amplify the fall harvest essence throughout the skillet.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Simmer

Return your seared chicken breasts back to the skillet, nestling them among the veggies and apples. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and cover the pan with a lid. Turn the heat down to low, letting everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking through while soaking up the maple Dijon glaze. The broth keeps the skillet moist and helps tenderize the chicken, creating a juicy, flavorful meal in one pan.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Once the cooking is complete, remove the lid. Spoon any remaining glaze over the chicken and veggies to brighten them up. This is your moment to taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs on top add a lovely aromatic garnish. Now your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe

The image shows a black skillet filled with seven golden-brown cooked chicken pieces with crispy skin, arranged in a circular pattern. Between the chicken pieces, there are several thin slices of red apple with white flesh, adding a fresh look. Small sprigs of green rosemary and a few pecans are scattered across the dish for color and texture contrast. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface, with a white cloth visible underneath and a whole red apple with a green leaf placed in the upper left corner of the frame. The lighting is bright and natural, highlighting the crispy chicken and fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra thyme leaves can add a fresh pop of color and elevate the presentation. If you love a bit of crunch, toasted pecans or walnuts on top make a delightful contrast. Garnishes not only beautify the plate but add subtle layers of flavor and texture that turn a good dish into a great experience.

Side Dishes

While the skillet is a complete meal itself, pairing it with simple sides like a fluffy wild rice pilaf or nutty quinoa will complement the flavors perfectly. A crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette is also a refreshing counterpoint to the rich maple-Dijon glaze. These sides help balance the meal and keep it feeling abundant without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy autumn dinner party, serve the chicken and vegetables family-style in the skillet right at the table to encourage sharing and warmth. Or plate each portion on warm rustic ceramic plates with a drizzle of extra glaze and a sprig of rosemary for a restaurant-worthy look. If you want to add a festive touch, nestle the chicken atop a bed of mashed sweet potatoes or creamy polenta to make it the centerpiece of your harvest feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its flavor and texture well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or a quick dinner solution during busy weekdays.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this dish later, freezing is a great option. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When properly stored, the glaze, tender chicken, and vegetables retain their deliciousness, ready to be reheated without losing their charm.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm the skillet gently over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Stirring occasionally helps maintain texture and ensures the maple Dijon glaze stays luscious. Add a splash of chicken broth if the dish seems dry during reheating to revive its saucy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative for this Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe because they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.

What type of apples work best?

Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking and contribute a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Avoid overly soft apples that might turn mushy in the skillet.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes! You can easily make this skitlet dairy-free by replacing the butter with coconut oil or simply using more olive oil for sautéing. The dish will still be incredibly flavorful and comforting.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep many parts in advance, like chopping the vegetables and slicing the apples. Cooking is best done fresh to keep the texture of the chicken and veggies perfect, but you can also fully cook and then reheat the dish later as mentioned in the storage section.

What sides pair beautifully with this recipe?

The Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe pairs wonderfully with wild rice, quinoa, mashed sweet potatoes, or even a simple green salad. These sides help highlight the rich glaze and hearty vegetables while keeping the meal well-rounded.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe is a celebration of everything warm, cozy, and delicious about fall. It’s an effortless one-pan meal that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and delivers a plate full of layered textures and flavors. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!