Name: Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet: Comforting Fall Flavors in One Pan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 slices Bacon (Adds savory flavor and crunch; turkey bacon makes a lighter option!); 1 pound Chicken Breast (Provides protein and substance; swap with tofu for a vegetarian alternative.); 2 tablespoons Ava Jane’s Kitchen Avocado Oil (Perfect for cooking and adds healthy fats; olive oil is a great substitute.); 1 small Onion (Lays the foundation for flavor and sweetness; shallots can offer a milder taste.); 1 whole Sweet Potato (Brings natural sweetness and a delightful texture; try butternut squash if desired.); 1/2 pound Brussels Sprouts (Their earthy flavor complements the sweet potatoes; green beans work well too.); 1 teaspoon Dried Sage (Imparts a warm, herby taste; fresh sage can elevate the dish even more.); 3 cups Baby Spinach (Adds vital nutrients and vibrant color; consider kale or Swiss chard as replacements.); 1/2 cup Pecans (Offers crunch and nuttiness; walnuts or almonds make for a tasty substitute.); 1/4 cup Dried Cranberries (Introduces sweetness and tartness; feel free to use raisins or cherries instead.); Colima Sea Salt (Enhances the flavors wonderfully; regular sea salt can do the trick too.); Fresh Ground Pepper (Season to taste for an extra flavor kick.)

The air is crisp, and the leaves are turning golden—autumn is here, bringing with it a bounty of flavors that deserve to be savored. Enter the Fall Harvest Chicken Skillet, a dish that captures the essence of the season in a cozy one-skillet meal. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a nutritious feast that’s not only hearty but also packed with protein, perfect for busy weeknights. With sweet potatoes, tender chicken, and the delightful crunch of pecans, this recipe is a harmonious blend of savory and sweet that will wow your taste buds. Plus, it’s Paleo-friendly, making it a fantastic choice for health-conscious cooks seeking comfort without compromise. Ready to bring the warmth of autumn into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why is this skillet dish a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Fall Harvest Chicken Skillet comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the savory-sweet combination of caramelized veggies, crispy bacon, and juicy chicken that captures the essence of fall.
Nutritional Powerhouse: This dish is not only high in protein but also packed with vitamins from seasonal produce like sweet potatoes and spinach.
One-Skillet Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, clean-up is a breeze, allowing you more time to relax after dinner.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to adapt the recipe by adding more veggies or switching to a vegetarian option with chickpeas—your culinary creativity is welcome here!

This comforting meal pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread, just like the scrumptious Crockpot Chicken Corn or Tzatziki Chicken Pizza. Get ready to dazzle your family or guests with this cozy fall offering!

Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Ingredients

• Prepare to savor the season’s best flavors with these delightful, wholesome ingredients!

For the Skillet

Bacon (4 slices, diced) – Adds savory flavor and crunch; turkey bacon makes a lighter option!
Chicken Breast (1 pound, cubed) – Provides protein and substance; swap with tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Ava Jane’s Kitchen Avocado Oil (2 tablespoons) – Perfect for cooking and adds healthy fats; olive oil is a great substitute.
Onion (1 small, diced) – Lays the foundation for flavor and sweetness; shallots can offer a milder taste.
Sweet Potato (1, peeled and cubed) – Brings natural sweetness and a delightful texture; try butternut squash if desired.
Brussels Sprouts (1/2 pound, cored and quartered) – Their earthy flavor complements the sweet potatoes; green beans work well too.
Dried Sage (1 teaspoon) – Imparts a warm, herby taste; fresh sage can elevate the dish even more.
Baby Spinach (3 cups) – Adds vital nutrients and vibrant color; consider kale or Swiss chard as replacements.
Pecans (1/2 cup) – Offers crunch and nuttiness; walnuts or almonds make for a tasty substitute.
Dried Cranberries (1/4 cup) – Introduces sweetness and tartness; feel free to use raisins or cherries instead.
Colima Sea Salt – Enhances the flavors wonderfully; regular sea salt can do the trick too.
Fresh Ground Pepper – Season to taste for an extra flavor kick.

This Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet is not just a meal; it’s an inviting embrace of autumn’s rich bounty. Enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the rendered fat behind. This will add a delicious base flavor to your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Brown Chicken
In the same skillet, add the cubed chicken breast to the bacon fat and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is well-browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside with the bacon, allowing the skillet to retain those flavorful drippings.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add 2 tablespoons of avocado oil to the skillet, then toss in the diced onion, sweet potatoes, and quartered Brussels sprouts. Sauté the mixture over medium-high heat for about 10–12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized. The bright colors and heavenly aroma will signal that it’s time to introduce the next flavors into your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet.

Step 4: Add Sage and Spinach
Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried sage and mix for about 1 minute, allowing the fragrant herb to bloom in the skillet. Then, add the baby spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and vibrant, giving your dish a beautiful pop of green. This step enhances the nutritional value of the Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet and adds to the overall comfort of the meal.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the crispy bacon, browned chicken, and drained pecans and dried cranberries back into the skillet. Gently stir everything together, cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. The Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet is starting to come together, and the enticing aroma will have everyone curious about dinner!

Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season your skillet dish with Colima sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference. Serve the Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet immediately while warm, optionally garnished with fresh sage leaves for an extra touch. This one-skillet meal is not only easy but also packed with flavors that celebrate the essence of fall!

Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Variations

Feel free to embrace your inner chef and customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds!

Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and bacon, substituting with chickpeas for a hearty, protein-rich option. The earthiness of chickpeas perfectly complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a delightful kick. Just a little heat can elevate this comforting meal to new heights!
Add More Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like carrots or squash to enrich the dish further. Each additional veggie brings its own flavor, making each bite an adventure.
Nut-Free Alternative: Swap pecans for sunflower seeds to keep the crunch without the nuts. They provide an equally satisfying texture while making the dish suitable for nut allergies.
Sweet and Savory: Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey just before serving. This adds a tantalizing glaze that accentuates the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and cranberries.
Herbal Twist: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a new flavor profile. Each herb brings its unique aroma, creating variations that can surprise and delight!
Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a refreshing bite. It brightens up the entire skillet and balances the dish beautifully.
Change the Protein: Swap chicken for diced turkey or even shrimp for a different protein twist. Both options cook quickly and pair wonderfully with the other flavors in the skillet.

Feel inspired to explore these variations, and you might just create a seasonal masterpiece that rivals dishes like Buffalo Chicken Taquitos or even Fiery Chicken Ramen. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These Fall Harvest Chicken Skillet ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time during busy weeknights! You can chop and prepare the vegetables (onion, sweet potato, Brussels sprouts, and spinach) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Similarly, you can cook and store the bacon and chicken separately for up to 3 days; just reheat them in a skillet to maintain their crispy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies and finish by adding the cooked chicken and bacon. This method ensures your meal is just as delicious while saving you precious time!

How to Store and Freeze Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

Fridge: Store your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.

Freezer: If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid the microwave to preserve the dish’s delightful textures.

Serving Size: Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Enjoy the delicious flavors even on busy days!

What to Serve with Fall Harvest Chicken Skillet

Elevate your weeknight dinner with delightful sides that beautifully complement the warmth and richness of this one-skillet dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes creates a comforting contrast to the savory chicken and veggies, making every bite heavenly.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp, bright element that balances the hearty flavors of the skillet perfectly. Toss in seasonal ingredients like pears or walnuts for an extra touch!
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread serves as the ideal sidekick for scooping up the flavorful sauce from the skillet, inviting everyone to enjoy every last bite.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweetly caramelized and slightly charred, roasted carrots and parsnips echo the dish’s autumnal essence, enhancing the cozy feel of your meal.
Cider-Mulled Wine: This warm drink, infused with spices, mirrors the flavors of your Fall Harvest Chicken Skillet beautifully. It adds a festive element, perfect for gathering around the table.
Fall Fruit Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm fruit crisp, laden with cinnamon and oats. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season, creating a delightful contrast to the savory elements of your dinner.

Expert Tips for Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet

Don’t Rush the Browning: Ensure your chicken is in a single layer to achieve perfect browning. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
Uniform Veggies: Cut sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts into even pieces. This guarantees they cook at the same rate, avoiding undercooked or mushy bits.
Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs like sage for a more vibrant flavor profile. Dried herbs can lose potency over time.
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on your stove’s heat. Adjust it as needed to prevent burning the vegetables while still getting that lovely caramelization.
Flavor Balance: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, adding more salt or pepper as needed to complement the sweetness in the dish. This Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet should be balanced!
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well, so consider making extra for lunches. It reheats nicely—just warm it in a skillet for the best texture.

Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of apples work best in this dish?
Absolutely! While this recipe doesn’t specifically call for apples, adding some cubed apples can enhance the sweetness and flavor profile of your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet. I recommend using Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness and crisp texture, which will hold up well while cooking. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of sautéing for the perfect balance.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating it in a skillet on medium heat to help retain the delicious texture of the bacon and vegetables, ensuring they don’t become soggy.

Can I freeze this dish? If so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet! To do so, let it cool completely. Portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through, making sure to watch the texture closely.

What should I do if my vegetables are too soft?
If you find that your vegetables are a bit mushy, it might be due to cooking at too high a temperature or for too long. In the future, ensure to sauté the vegetables on medium to medium-high heat, stirring frequently and keeping an eye on them. If they do become soft, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or some additional nuts at the end to add a bit of crunch and texture to the dish!

Is this recipe allergen-friendly?
The Autumn Harvest Chicken Skillet can be made allergen-friendly with some simple substitutions. For nut allergies, just omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds. If you have a wheat allergy, make sure to check that any seasonings are gluten-free. Lastly, for dairy sensitivities, this recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it a fantastic option for dairy-free diets. Always double-check labels for any hidden allergens!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Very! To adapt this recipe to be vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and bacon. Replace the chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas for protein and texture. Cook the tofu until crisp before removing it from the skillet, similar to how you would handle the chicken. Enjoy the same delightful flavors and textures while making it suitable for your vegetarian friends or family!