As the leaves rustle and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving heartwarming dishes that celebrate the bounty of autumn. Enter the Harvest Chicken Skillet—a vibrant one-pot meal that perfectly captures the essence of the season. This delightful creation brings together tender chicken, smoky bacon, and sweet roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, all enhanced by the bright note of apples and warm spices. Not only is it quick to prepare with minimal cleanup, but it also guarantees a family-friendly feast that’s nutritious and packed with flavor. Are you ready to elevate your autumn dinner game with this cozy recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this skillet dinner a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pot meal eliminates the hassle of multiple pans, making cleanup a breeze.
Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with wholesome ingredients, the blend of chicken, sweet potatoes, and apples offers nourishment without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for Autumn: Embrace the season’s flavors with warm spices and fresh produce, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love this dish, with its delicious combination of sweet and savory elements.
Versatile Options: Enjoy easy substitutions to suit your taste, like swapping bacon for a veggie alternative or adding greens.
Quick and Easy: Get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. Plus, if you loved this, try our Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another easy family favorite!
Harvest Chicken Skillet Ingredients
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For the Bacon
• Bacon – Adds a rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture. Substitute with plant-based bacon or omit for a lighter dish. -
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Serves as the main protein source, ensuring a lean and healthy meal. Use turkey or rotisserie chicken as alternatives. -
For the Vegetables
• Sweet potatoes – Provide a sweet starch that enhances the dish’s warmth. Frozen sweet potatoes can be used if fresh ones aren’t available.
• Brussels sprouts – Contributes a slightly bitter crunch that balances the sweetness. They can be substituted with green beans or kale if necessary.
• Apple – Offers sweetness and a fresh, fruity element. Substitute with pears for a different flavor. -
For the Crunch
• Walnuts – Gives a crunchy texture and healthy fats. Pecans or sunflower seeds can work as a replacement.
• Dried cranberries – Adds chewy sweetness that complements the autumn flavors. Use raisins or chopped dates as substitutes. -
For Seasoning
• Fresh thyme – Infuses the dish with aromatic notes. Dried thyme can also be used in a pinch.
• Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, black pepper) – Adds warmth and depth. Adjust spices according to taste; cayenne or smoked paprika can add a kick.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Harvest Chicken Skillet
Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet, over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving a flavorful drippings base in the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add diced onions and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, or until they become translucent. Next, add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Prepare Chicken
Carefully add boneless, skinless chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is browned on both sides and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken and set aside while you prepare the vegetables.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Into the same skillet, stir in the chopped sweet potatoes and halved Brussels sprouts. Season with salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cover and cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sprouts are bright green.
Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Now, add the diced apple, walnuts, and dried cranberries to the skillet, along with a splash of chicken broth to enhance moisture. Stir gently and let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors of the Harvest Chicken Skillet to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Finally, return the cooked bacon to the skillet and sprinkle fresh thyme over the top. Mix everything gently and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through. Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors of your Harvest Chicken Skillet!
Harvest Chicken Skillet Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this delicious dish and enjoy experimenting with flavors!
- Vegetarian Bacon: Replace bacon with plant-based bacon or tempeh for a smoky flavor without the meat.
- Different Proteins: Try using turkey breasts or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and tasty variation.
- Colorful Veggies: Mix in vibrant vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to add more color and nutrients to your skillet.
- Apple Swap: Use pears instead of apples for a different kind of sweetness; they bring their own unique flavor twist.
- Extra Greens: Toss in sautéed spinach or kale for an extra boost of fiber and vitamins, elevating the dish’s health factor.
- Nutty Alternatives: Swap walnuts for pecans or sunflower seeds to change up the texture and flavor profile.
- Heat It Up: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for some heat, making this a warming fall meal.
- Sweet & Savory Balance: Enhance the sweetness by adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving; it beautifully complements the flavors.
Feel inspired? If you loved this cozy one-pan dish, don’t forget to try our Cajun Garlic Chicken for another delightful meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Harvest Chicken Skillet ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance for optimized cooking efficiency. Simply refrigerate the sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, onions, and garlic in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If you prefer to prep even further ahead, you can marinate the chicken in your chosen spices for up to 3 days in the fridge—this allows the flavors to deepen beautifully. When it’s time to serve, cook the bacon and quickly sauté the prepped veggies, add the marinated chicken, and finish by combining the remaining ingredients as instructed for a speedy, delicious family meal!
How to Store and Freeze Harvest Chicken Skillet
Fridge: Store any leftover Harvest Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop.
Reheating: Reheat on medium-low heat to prevent burning, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture and flavor.
Storage Tips: If you anticipate leftovers, consider making a smaller batch or sharing it with friends and family who will appreciate this cozy meal!
What to Serve With Harvest Chicken Skillet
As the comforting aroma of your Harvest Chicken Skillet fills the kitchen, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments that will elevate this cozy dish into a full meal experience.
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Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette contrasts wonderfully with the heartiness of the skillet, adding brightness to your plate.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread offers a delightful crunch, perfect for savoring the delicious juices from the chicken and veggies. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints!
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Roasted Cauliflower: This addition brings a lovely, nutty flavor and slightly caramelized texture that complements the dish while adding extra nutrition.
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Apple Cider: A glass of chilled apple cider ties in the sweet notes from the apples in the skillet, enhancing the fall flavors and creating a lovely harmony.
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Sweet Potato Wedges: For a double dose of hearty goodness, serve crispy sweet potato wedges alongside, seasoned with garlic powder and rosemary for an aromatic touch.
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Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Keep the autumn theme alive with slightly sweet muffins. Their soft texture pairs nicely with the savory elements of the dish, creating a comforting blend of flavors.
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Creamy Buttermilk Dressing: Drizzle this tangy dressing over your salad or enjoyed on its own. It adds a creamy contrast that complements the earthy flavors of the Harvest Chicken Skillet.
Bring in these delightful accompaniments, and you’ll create a comforting autumn meal that will warm both the heart and the home!
Expert Tips for Harvest Chicken Skillet
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Cut Uniformly: Ensure even cooking by cutting sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts into uniform pieces, which promotes consistent tenderness and flavor.
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Watch the Bacon: Avoid burning bacon by cooking it over medium heat and keeping an eye on it as it crisps; burnt bacon can overshadow the dish’s flavor.
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Adjust Spices: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices in your Harvest Chicken Skillet to suit your taste; adding a pinch of cayenne can spice things up nicely.
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Thaw Frozen Veggies: If using frozen sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to prevent extra moisture from making the dish soggy.
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Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving; it brightens the flavors and complements the sweetness in the dish wonderfully.
Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a delightful contrast to the savory flavors. If you prefer a tart element, Granny Smith apples can add an exciting twist!
How should I store leftovers from the Harvest Chicken Skillet?
Leftover Harvest Chicken Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze the Harvest Chicken Skillet?
Yes! This dish freezes wonderfully. For best results, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth for moisture if needed.
What if I have a nut allergy?
No worries! You can simply omit the walnuts from the recipe. For added crunch, consider using toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead. They still offer a delightful texture without the nuts.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be white, not pink, and the juices should run clear.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Very much! If you’re pressed for time, frozen sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts can be used. However, ensure they are thawed first and drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the final dish’s texture. Enjoy the simplicity of this cozy recipe!
Harvest Chicken Skillet: A Cozy One-Pan Autumn Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving drippings in the skillet.
- Sauté diced onions in the bacon drippings for about 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Add chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked to 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Stir in sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts into the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes.
- Add diced apple, walnuts, and dried cranberries along with a splash of chicken broth. Stir and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Return cooked bacon to the skillet, sprinkle fresh thyme on top, and mix gently. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
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