Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp edge, there’s nothing quite like cooking cozy, comforting meals that warm the soul. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall is our Cozy One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken with Sweet Apples. This delightful recipe marries the savory succulence of chicken with the sweet, aromatic notes of pumpkin spice and juicy apples, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home.
What I adore about this dish, aside from its comforting taste, is its simplicity. One pan means less cleanup, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment—whether it’s a quiet evening in or a festive gathering with friends and family. The natural sweetness of the apples complements the earthiness of the pumpkin spice, while the chicken remains tender and juicy, making each bite a celebration of autumn’s bounty.
So grab your favorite cookware and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will not only fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also envelop you in the warmth of fall!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium apples, cored and cut into slices (preferably Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp pumpkin spice seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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- In a large, oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
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- Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the pumpkin spice seasoning. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the skillet and brown for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until aromatic.
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- Toss the sliced apples into the skillet and let them cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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- In a separate medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, maple syrup, and the remaining pumpkin spice seasoning. Mix until well blended.
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- Return the chicken to the skillet, then pour the pumpkin mixture over the chicken and apples, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
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- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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- When finished, take the skillet out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on preferred for juiciness and flavor.
- Pumpkin Puree: Canned or homemade for added sweetness and creaminess.
- Apple Cider: For a warm, sweet undertone that complements the spices.
- Fresh Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well for a tart contrast.
- Pumpkin Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for that signature flavor.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding richness.
- Garlic: Minced for aromatic depth.
- Onion: Chopped for sweetness and texture.
- Chicken Broth: To create a savory base and enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Thyme or rosemary for a hint of earthiness.
Enjoy creating this cozy one-pan meal that brings the flavors of fall to your dinner table!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your dish bakes evenly and at the right temperature, producing perfectly tender chicken and caramelized apples.
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Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine your chicken thighs (or breasts) with pumpkin spice, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Make sure the chicken is well coated for maximum flavor. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
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Slice the Apples: While the chicken is marinating, core and slice your apples into wedges. You can use a mix of sweet varieties like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for a balance of flavors. Toss the apple slices in a bowl with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar to enhance their sweetness and add depth.
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Arrange in the Pan: In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Scatter the apple wedges around the chicken, ensuring they are equally distributed to allow for even cooking.
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Add Aromatics: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced onions and fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) around the chicken and apples. These aromatics will infuse the dish with warmth and depth.
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Drizzle with Maple Syrup: Just before baking, drizzle a tablespoon of pure maple syrup over the entire dish. This adds a touch of sweetness that complements both the chicken and the apples beautifully.
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Bake: Cover the pan with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
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Uncover and Crisp: After the initial baking time, remove the foil and switch the oven to broil. Broil for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken skin is golden brown and crispy, and the apples have caramelized nicely.
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Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring a succulent, flavorful meal. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
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Enjoy: Pair this cozy one-pan meal with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying dinner. Enjoy the delightful blend of pumpkin spice and sweet apples in every bite!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Cozy One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken with Sweet Apples, here are a few delightful serving suggestions that complement the dish beautifully:
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Bed of Quinoa or Rice: Serve the chicken and apples over a fluffy bed of quinoa or jasmine rice. The grains will soak up the flavorful sauce, creating a perfect harmony with each bite.
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Side of Roasted Vegetables: Pair your dish with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans drizzled with olive oil and tossed with salt and pepper. The smoky flavors will contrast nicely with the sweetness of the apples and pumpkin spice.
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Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of tart cranberry sauce adds a lovely pop of color and acidity to balance the dish’s warmth. It’s especially delightful during the fall season!
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Crispy Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll, perfect for mopping up the delicious pumpkin spice sauce.
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Green Salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpart to the heartiness of the chicken and apples. Add some nuts for crunch and cheese for creaminess.
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Beverage Pairings: Complement your meal with a warm apple cider or a glass of white wine such as Riesling, which pairs wonderfully with both chicken and sweet apples. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a spiced herbal tea.
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Garnish: Finish your plate with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added touch of color and flavor.
These suggestions aim to enhance your dining experience and allow the flavors of your Cozy One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken with Sweet Apples to shine! Enjoy!
Conclusion
This Cozy One-Pan Pumpkin Spice Chicken with Sweet Apples is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that captures the essence of fall in every bite. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and juicy, sweet apples creates a symphony of flavors that will warm your heart and soul. Easy to prepare and clean up afterward, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests at a cozy gathering.
Whether you’re a pumpkin spice enthusiast or simply looking to explore new flavors, this comforting meal is sure to become a seasonal favorite. So, gather your loved ones around the table, share stories, and enjoy the heartwarming taste of autumn with each delicious bite. Happy cooking!
