Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe

There is something truly comforting about a one-pan meal that brings together the vibrant flavors of fall, and the Harvest Chicken Skillet does exactly that with flair. This dish beautifully combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, all elevated by a cozy blend of warm spices and the bright pop of crisp apples and tart cranberries. Whether you’re craving something wholesome for a busy weeknight or want to impress guests with a colorful, hearty meal, this Harvest Chicken Skillet offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and nutty notes that will keep you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. From the smoky bacon to the fresh herbs, these simple components transform into a vibrant and satisfying dish.

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a smoky, crispy foundation that infuses the entire skillet with savory richness.
• Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth when sautéed, perfectly complementing the other ingredients.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of aromatic flavor that enhances the savory notes.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-size pieces, chicken provides tender protein that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
• Sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture balance out the earthy Brussels sprouts and savory chicken.
• Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and halved, these add a satisfying crunch and slightly bitter contrast.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: These warm spices bring out the harvest theme and cozy fall flavor profile.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients together.
• Red apple: Fuji or Gala apples provide a crisp, fresh sweetness to brighten the dish.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth without overpowering the natural flavors.
• Walnuts: Roughly chopped for crunchy texture and a nutty accent.
• Dried cranberries: Their tartness adds a lovely contrast to the sweet and savory elements.
• Fresh thyme: Chopped thyme brings a fragrant herbal note that complements the autumnal ingredients.

How to Make Harvest Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the thick-cut bacon until it is perfectly crispy, about 10 minutes. This not only yields a deliciously smoky meat but also creates a rich bacon grease that will serve as the flavorful base for sautéing the onion and garlic. Once the bacon is done, crumble it and set it aside, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Into the skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the diced onion and cook until it softens and turns nearly translucent, a process that usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrant aroma without burning. This combination forms the aromatic heart of the dish and builds a deep, savory foundation.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with half of your salt and pepper. Allow the chicken to brown on all sides and cook through, which should take around 8 minutes. Browning is crucial here, as it adds texture and caramelized flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken and keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables with Spices

If the skillet seems dry after removing the chicken, add a splash of olive oil to ensure the vegetables don’t stick. Toss in the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts along with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and the remaining salt and pepper. Stir everything well and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to allow the vegetables to develop a nice sear and caramelization, elevating the overall flavor complexity.

Step 5: Add Apples and Simmer

Next, stir in the diced apples and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to add moisture. Cover the skillet and let everything cook together for 10 to 15 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the broth doesn’t evaporate completely and the vegetables don’t stick. During this time, the apples soften slightly while maintaining some crispness, balancing the dish’s savory and sweet elements beautifully.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and fold in the chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and fresh thyme. Let everything heat through for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the skillet topped with the crispy reserved bacon for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve Harvest Chicken Skillet

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a refreshing green contrast. For an extra-special touch, crumbled goat cheese or feta works wonderfully, adding creamy tanginess that shines alongside the sweet and savory notes of the skillet.

Side Dishes

This Harvest Chicken Skillet is so hearty it can shine as a main course on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crusty artisan bread to soak up the juices makes excellent companions. Roasted garlic mashed potatoes also complement the cozy fall flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Harvest Chicken Skillet straight from the pan for a cozy, rustic vibe perfect for family dinners. For a more elegant presentation, arrange portions over a bed of creamy polenta or wild rice. You can even stuff the mixture inside baked acorn squash halves for a stunning seasonal centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Harvest Chicken Skillet stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen and meld overnight, making your next meal even more delicious. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this meal later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure everything is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Harvest Chicken Skillet gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water will help keep the vegetables from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain texture and flavor, but if in a pinch, microwave covered in short bursts and stir in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay juicy longer. Just adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have Brussels sprouts? Can I substitute another vegetable?

Definitely. You can use green beans, broccoli florets, or even kale—it won’t be exactly the same taste but will keep that lovely vegetable component and texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the Harvest Chicken Skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always double-check labels if you have gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this vegetarian?

While the original recipe features chicken and bacon, you can swap the chicken for hearty plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic smoky bacon flavors.

How spicy is the dish? Can I add heat?

This recipe leans towards warm and cozy rather than spicy, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper with the seasonings to give it a gentle kick.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Harvest Chicken Skillet inspires your kitchen creativity and brings a little extra warmth to your table. It’s one of those recipes you keep coming back to because it checks every box: easy, nourishing, and packed with seasonal flavors. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy all the delicious layers of taste and texture that make this skillet a true fall favorite.

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