Baked chicken with apples is the ultimate fall comfort food, combining the savory goodness of chicken thighs with the sweet, crisp flavor of apples. This dish is simple yet full of flavor, perfect for cozy family dinners. The chicken thighs bake in a creamy apple cider sauce, complemented by the sweetness of apples and the rich aroma of thyme. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to serve after a fun apple-picking trip, this baked chicken with apples recipe is sure to satisfy.
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Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken with Apples Recipe
This baked chicken with apples recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time. The combination of tender chicken thighs, flavorful apples, and rich apple cider sauce makes this dish a perfect family-friendly option. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate fall flavors into your meals.
Ingredients for Baked Chicken with Apples
To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
• Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on): Adds rich flavor and a juicy texture to the dish.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Vegetable Oil: Used for searing the chicken thighs, creating a crispy golden crust.
• Onion: Adds a savory sweetness when caramelized in the apple cider sauce.
• Apple Cider: Infuses the sauce with a rich, tangy sweetness.
• Chicken Stock: Balances the flavors and enhances the richness of the sauce.
• Fresh Thyme: Provides earthy, aromatic notes that complement the apple cider.
• Apples: The star of the dish, adding sweetness and crunch.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Gives the sauce a creamy, luscious texture.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a velvety consistency.
Alternative Ingredients for Dietary Preferences
If you’re looking for substitutions, here are some options to consider:
• Chicken Thighs: For a lighter option, swap the thighs with chicken breasts.
• Apple Cider: If you don’t have apple cider, use apple juice as an alternative, although it will be a bit sweeter.
• Thyme: If fresh thyme is unavailable, you can use dried thyme, but reduce the quantity by half.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Chicken with Apples
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until they start to brown.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the apple cider and chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any flavorful browned bits.
- Simmer: Stir in fresh thyme and salt. Let the mixture simmer for 4-5 minutes until the onions are soft.
- Return the Chicken: Place the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Arrange the sliced apples around the chicken.
- Bake: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil, and bake for 15 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cornstarch. Stir the slurry into the sauce and return the chicken to the skillet, spooning more sauce over the top.
- Finish Baking: Uncover the skillet and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
- Serve: Serve the baked chicken with the apples and sauce. This dish pairs perfectly with rice or mashed potatoes.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Baked Chicken with Apples
- Searing the Chicken: Be sure to brown the chicken on both sides before baking. This step adds a rich flavor to the skin and helps lock in moisture.
- Check the Chicken Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F. This ensures the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave for a quick meal.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for Baked Chicken with Apples
This baked chicken with apples dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
• Rice: A simple side of white rice or wild rice soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory chicken and sweet apples perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
• Variations: Try adding a dash of cinnamon to the apples for an extra fall twist, or sprinkle some chopped pecans over the top for added crunch.
Why This Baked Chicken with Apples is a Fall Favorite
The combination of juicy chicken, caramelized onions, sweet apples, and a creamy sauce makes this baked chicken with apples the perfect meal to enjoy during the fall months. The dish is hearty, comforting, and full of seasonal flavors, making it ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead for busy weeknights.
Conclusion: Why Baked Chicken with Apples is the Perfect Fall Meal
Baked chicken with apples is the ideal dish for bringing the comforting flavors of fall into your kitchen. The combination of succulent chicken thighs, sweet apples, and the rich sauce creates a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy evening at home, this recipe is sure to impress with its delicious balance of savory and sweet flavors. Plus, with the versatility to swap ingredients or add variations, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Give this baked chicken with apples recipe a try and enjoy the warm, hearty flavors of fall all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for the thighs in this recipe. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts are leaner and might cook faster than thighs, so be sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
2. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this baked chicken with apples dairy-free, you can replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk. You can also omit the cream entirely for a lighter version of the sauce.
3. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Season and sear the chicken, then prepare the apple cider sauce. Store the components separately in the refrigerator and bake everything together when you’re ready to serve.
4. What can I serve with baked chicken with apples?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.
More Relevant Recipes
- Honey Butter Chicken: This recipe features tender chicken glazed with a rich honey butter sauce, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s perfect for a family dinner, much like the baked chicken with apples. The golden glaze adds an irresistible finish to each bite.
- Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken with Boursin Sauce: If you enjoy the combination of savory chicken with creamy sauces, this dish is a great option. The creamy lemon herb sauce with Boursin cheese offers a tangy, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with roasted meats like the baked chicken with apples.
- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: For those who love bold, flavorful dishes, this creamy Cajun chicken pasta brings spicy and creamy elements together in a satisfying dish. Similar to the rich, creamy nature of the baked chicken with apples, this recipe adds a bit of a kick with Cajun spices.

Baked Chicken with Apples
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Baked Chicken with Apples is a comforting fall recipe that combines savory chicken thighs with sweet apples, onions, and a creamy apple cider sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or after a day of apple picking, offering the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and brown them for about 4 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
- Add sliced onions to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to brown.
- Pour in apple cider and chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release browned bits. Stir in thyme and salt, and simmer for 4-5 minutes until onions are soft.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce over the top. Arrange sliced apples around the chicken.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the skillet, uncover, and transfer chicken to a plate. Whisk together heavy cream and cornstarch, then stir it into the sauce in the skillet.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Bake uncovered for another 15 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve the baked chicken with apples and the creamy sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken thighs are properly browned before baking for added flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 115mg