Skillet Chicken with Apples and Bacon
Skillet Chicken with Apples and Bacon is a cozy, down-to-earth dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet, juicy apples all cooked in one pan. The combination of…
Tip: save now, cook later.Skillet Chicken with Apples and Bacon is a cozy, down-to-earth dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet, juicy apples all cooked in one pan. The combination of savory and a bit of natural sweetness from the apples makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple but packed with flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take forever to prepare. The bacon adds a smoky crunch that pairs so well with the soft apples and juicy chicken pieces. I like to let the apples get a little caramelized in the skillet—it brings out their sweetness and makes the whole dish taste balanced and satisfying.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of roasted veggies or even some mashed potatoes to soak up all those delicious juices. It’s definitely one of those meals that makes the kitchen smell amazing and leaves everyone asking for seconds. If you haven’t tried combining sweet apples with savory bacon and chicken, this recipe is a must-try—it’s a simple twist that feels like a treat every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick, even cooking. If you prefer juicier meat, try bone-in thighs—they stay tender and add flavor.
Apples: I like Gala or Fuji for their sweetness and firmness, which hold up well in the skillet. If you want a tarter bite, Granny Smith apples work great.
Bacon: Bacon adds smoky crunch and fat for cooking. If you want a leaner option, turkey bacon can substitute but cooks faster and is less rich.
Chicken broth: This keeps the dish moist and adds depth. For a lighter option, water can be used, but broth boosts flavor noticeably.
Fresh thyme: Its earthy notes complement both chicken and apples. If fresh herbs aren’t available, use ½ teaspoon dried thyme instead.
How Do You Get Apples to Caramelize Without Turning Mushy?
Caramelizing apples just right means they’re soft but still have a little bite. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut apples into wedges, not too thin, so they hold shape.
- Cook over medium heat with a bit of fat (butter or bacon fat) for 3-5 minutes, stirring gently.
- Let the apples sit without stirring too much to develop a golden color.
- Watch closely so they soften but don’t turn into mush—timing is key!
This way, the apples get a nice caramelized flavor and texture that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and salty bacon.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken, apples, and bacon all in one pan for easy cleanup.
- Tongs – help you flip the chicken without losing the crispy crust.
- Sharp knife – needed to cut apples, bacon, and onions cleanly and safely.
- Cutting board – gives you a safe surface for chopping your ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring apples and scraping up those flavorful browned bits.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs to get juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Add sliced mushrooms for a rich, earthy touch that pairs nicely with apples.
- Use smoked paprika or a pinch of cinnamon to add warmth and depth to the dish.
- Try sharp cheddar or crumbled blue cheese on top for a tangy contrast if you enjoy bold flavors.
Skillet Chicken with Apples and Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Bacon:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
For the Apples and Sauce:
- 2 medium apples (such as Gala or Fuji), cored and cut into wedges
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 20 minutes to cook, and a little resting time. So from start to finish, you’re looking at around 30 minutes for a delicious, home-cooked meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Take the bacon out with a slotted spoon and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep the bacon fat in the pan for extra flavor.
Add olive oil or butter if needed, then turn the heat up to medium-high and cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Apples and Onions:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions (if you’re using them) and cook for about 2 minutes until they soften. Then add the apple wedges and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and get a little caramelized.
3. Make the Sauce and Combine:
Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and sprinkle in the brown sugar (if using). Add the fresh thyme leaves. Stir everything together while scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Put the cooked chicken and crispy bacon back into the skillet, nestling them comfortably amongst the apples. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything cook together for another 5 minutes. This step warms all the flavors and finishes cooking the chicken perfectly.
4. Finish and Serve:
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle some extra fresh thyme on top for a bright, herbaceous finish. Serve the chicken with the apples and bacon on top, spooning some of the delicious pan juices over everything. It’s great alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and apple mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Substitute the Apples with Another Fruit?
Yes, pears are a great alternative and offer a similar sweetness and texture. Just slice them similarly and cook as you would the apples to get that lovely caramelization.
