Harvest Chicken Skillet with Apples and Cranberries Recipe

If you’re craving something that’s cozy, vibrant, and packed with that perfect mix of sweet and savory, you absolutely have to try my Harvest Chicken Skillet with Apples and Cranberries Recipe. This meal hits all the right notes with tender, golden chicken thighs, bright fall apples, tart cranberries, and hearty greens—all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Seriously, this recipe has become a go-to for busy weeknights when I want something wholesome yet impressive enough to share with family or friends.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Harvest Chicken Skillet with Apples and Cranberries Recipe has been thoughtfully chosen to work in harmony — from the smoky poultry seasoning to the crisp honeycrisp apples that lend subtle sweetness. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll want to have on hand before you start.

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The skin crisps up wonderfully, and the thighs stay juicy throughout cooking.
• Sea salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to bring out all the flavors without overpowering them.
• Dried poultry seasoning: Adds that cozy, herbal warmth; feel free to swap in a savory spice blend you like.
• Ghee or cooking fat: Ghee lends a nice nutty flavor and is great for high-heat searing.
• Fresh sage, rosemary, and thyme: These herbs are essential for that authentic harvest vibe and incredible aroma.
• Garlic cloves: Minced and quick to sauté, garlic amps up the savory base of this dish.
• Pecan halves: Toasted for crunch and a hint of earthiness that balances the sweetness.
• Shredded Brussels sprouts or a kale-Bruessels mix: I like this combo for texture and flavor complexity.
• Chicken or bone broth: Keeps things moist and adds depth, so don’t skip this!
• 100% apple juice or apple cider: Just a splash to bring out the apples’ natural sweetness in the sauce.
• Honeycrisp apple: Thinly sliced or diced depending on your texture preference.
• Dried cranberries or raisins (optional): For a pop of tartness and chewy texture that makes every bite interesting.
• Fresh herbs for garnish: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs really elevate the look and flavor when serving.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Harvest Chicken Skillet with Apples and Cranberries Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you have or prefer. Don’t be shy—make it your own!

• Add sausage: I once tossed in some sliced chicken sausage for a heartier, smoky twist that my hubby adored.
• Veggie swap: Swap Brussels sprouts for green beans or wilted spinach if that’s what’s in your fridge.
• Go nut-free: Leave out pecans and instead sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
• Sweetener tweak: If you want it less sweet, skip the apple juice and use extra broth instead.

How to Make Harvest Chicken Skillet with Apples and Cranberries Recipe

Step 1: Sear to Golden Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and heating a large, ovenproof skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat with a splash of ghee. While it’s warming up, generously season the chicken thighs with sea salt, black pepper, and that gorgeous dried poultry seasoning. Place them skin-side down in the hot skillet and let them sear without moving for about 5 minutes until that skin is deeply golden and crispy—that caramelization is key to flavor!

Step 2: Roast the Chicken

Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Then pop the whole skillet into your preheated oven and roast for 10-12 minutes until the chicken hits 165°F internally. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the thighs to a baking dish—just keep all those pan juices for later!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Toast the Nuts

Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it with tongs and set aside on a plate. Put your skillet back on the stovetop over medium heat, adding your minced garlic and fresh sage, rosemary, and thyme right into the glorious chicken drippings. You might want to add a touch more ghee if the skillet looks dry. Sauté the herbs and garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then toss in the pecan halves to gently toast them—another 30 seconds works wonders here.

Step 4: Cook the Greens and Apples

Next, stir in the shredded Brussels sprouts (or kale mix), chicken broth, and apple juice or cider. Give everything a good mix and let the greens soften for 1-2 minutes. Then add your honeycrisp apples and dried cranberries or raisins if you’re using them. Season with a bit more salt and pepper, then nestle the chicken back into the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Let it cook just long enough for the apples to soften yet hold their shape—usually 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the top for that finishing aroma and pop of color. Serve immediately straight from the skillet for a rustic, heartwarming presentation that everyone loves.

How to Serve Harvest Chicken Skillet with Apples and Cranberries Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs are my favorite garnishes—they add freshness and a lovely fragrance that enhances the harvest feel. If you’re feeling fancy, a quick drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed toasted pecans right before serving adds a subtle, elegant crunch.

Side Dishes

I often pair this skillet dinner with a simple mixed greens salad dressed with apple cider vinaigrette or a side of roasted sweet potatoes. For a cozy meal, creamy mashed cauliflower works perfectly to soak up all those delicious pan juices.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests or celebrating something special, I love plating individual portions in mini cast iron skillets—it’s a fun, rustic way to showcase the autumn vibes. Or arrange the chicken on a wooden board surrounded by extra apples and fresh herbs for a harvest-season centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken stays juicy, and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch the next day. Just keep the apples slightly firm by reheating gently.

Freezing

Freezing works well too—I freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. To avoid texture loss with the apples and greens, I recommend reheating gently and adding a fresh sprinkle of herbs after thawing.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this meal is on the stovetop over low heat, covered, just until warmed through—this keeps chicken skin from getting soggy and prevents the apples from turning too mushy. Microwaves can work in a pinch but watch closely.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Harvest Chicken Skillet with Apples and Cranberries Recipe feels like a big warm hug on a plate. I love how it’s full of seasonal flavors yet simple enough that you don’t spend half your evening in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this recipe will deliver that fall comfort we all crave. Give it a try—you’ll probably find yourself making it again and again, just like I did!

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