Quick And Easy Apple Maple Chicken For Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Quick and Easy Apple Maple Chicken is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a comforting dish for any busy weeknight. I love how the tender chicken pairs beautifully with caramelized apples and the warm, cozy flavors of maple syrup and cinnamon. It’s simple to make yet tastes like something special—perfect for when I want a meal that feels homemade and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines familiar ingredients in a way that feels fresh and flavorful. The apples add natural sweetness, the maple syrup brings a rich glaze, and the lemon juice balances it all with brightness. I enjoy that it cooks quickly in one pan, making cleanup easy and weeknight dinners effortless. Plus, the aroma of maple and cinnamon filling the kitchen always makes me feel cozy and content.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups apples, cored and sliced (about 2 medium apples)
¼ cup maple syrup
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional for added brightness)
1 sprig fresh thyme (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. I season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
3. Once the oil is hot, I add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. I remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
4. In the same skillet, I add the sliced apples and cook for about 3 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize slightly.
5. I stir in the maple syrup, chicken broth, and cinnamon, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to build flavor.
6. I let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. I return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the sauce, letting it simmer for another 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
8. I finish with a splash of fresh lemon juice if I want extra brightness and garnish with a sprig of thyme before serving.
9. I serve the dish warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete, comforting meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. The total preparation and cooking time is around 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick and cozy weeknight dinner.

Variations

I sometimes use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, richer flavor. For a bit of heat, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. I also like mixing different apple varieties—such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith—for a balance of sweet and tart. When I want an even creamier sauce, I stir in a splash of cream or a knob of butter right before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a small splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months—I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of apples work best?

I like using firm, slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala—they hold their shape and complement the maple syrup beautifully.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay tender during cooking.

Is this dish very sweet?

No, the maple syrup adds gentle sweetness that’s balanced by the lemon juice and savory broth.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses olive oil instead of butter.

What sides go well with Apple Maple Chicken?

I enjoy serving it with mashed potatoes, wild rice, roasted sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, I sometimes add sliced onions or carrots to cook with the apples for extra flavor and color.

How do I thicken the sauce?

I simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water.

Can I use apple cider instead of chicken broth?

Yes, apple cider adds even more apple flavor and works beautifully in this dish.

How long does it take to cook the chicken?

It takes about 10–12 minutes total, depending on thickness. I make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Conclusion

I love how Quick and Easy Apple Maple Chicken brings together the warmth of maple, the sweetness of apples, and the heartiness of chicken in one simple dish. It’s comforting, flavorful, and ideal for a weeknight dinner that feels special without the fuss. Every bite has that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and cozy—just what I want on a relaxing evening at home.

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