Description
This delicious Chicken with Apples and Maple-Lime Sauce recipe combines perfectly seasoned chicken tenderloins with tender sautéed apples in a sweet and tangy maple syrup and lime sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors, it’s an ideal dish for a satisfying weeknight dinner that balances savory, sweet, and citrusy notes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenderloins or boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
For the Apples and Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the apples)
- 2 large red apples (such as Gala, Fuji, or Honey Crisp), thoroughly washed, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 medium lime, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins with paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat for approximately 2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then place the seasoned chicken in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep aside.
- Cook the Apples: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until the apples are soft and pliable but not mushy. Remove from heat.
- Make the Sauce: Add the maple syrup and freshly squeezed lime juice to the skillet containing the cooked apples. Stir gently to combine the flavors and warm the sauce slightly.
- Assemble: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the apples and maple-lime sauce. Gently reheat on low heat, stirring carefully to combine all ingredients and allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more maple syrup or lime juice if desired.
- Serve: Plate the chicken topped with the apples and sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme and lime slices for a bright, appealing presentation. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For best results, use firm apples like Gala, Fuji, or Honey Crisp that hold their shape when cooked.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for tenderloins or breasts depending on preference; adjust cooking time as needed.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh thyme enhances the dish’s aroma but is optional.
- This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
