Warm, hearty, and brimming with fall flavors, Harvest Apple Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-skillet dinner perfect for cozy nights. This dish combines tender, cinnamon-kissed chicken breasts with fragrant jasmine or basmati rice, sweet diced Granny Smith apples, and a savory blend of thyme and sage. A splash of apple cider adds a subtle sweetness, while low-sodium chicken broth ensures perfectly fluffy, flavorful rice. Sautéed onions and a touch of butter create a rich, aromatic base for this comforting meal. Ready in just 50 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is not only ideal for busy weeknights but also makes a stunning centerpiece for seasonal gatherings. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve warm for a dish that celebrates the best of autumn.
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the diced apples to the skillet and sauté for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in the butter, thyme, and dried sage. Allow the mixture to cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the herb and apple mixture. Cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the rice.
Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
Simmer the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender, the liquid is fully absorbed, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to rest.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Harvest Apple Chicken and Rice!
Calories |
427 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.6 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.8 g | 29% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 100 mg | 33% | |
| Sodium | 677 mg | 29% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.8 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.1 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.3 g | ||
| Protein | 34.2 g | 68% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 49 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.4 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 518 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.