11 Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet

apple cider chicken skillet

Ingredients Needed for Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet

apple cider chicken skillet

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a delicious and wholesome one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, nutritious quinoa, and a sweet hint of apple cider. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, combining savory and sweet flavors along with a variety of veggies that make it both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredient Quantity
Chicken breasts 1 pound
Apple cider 1 cup
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, diced
Carrots 2, chopped
Celery 2 stalks, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Spinach (optional) 2 cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides.
  3. Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, then stir in quinoa, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until quinoa is fluffy and chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.
  5. Stir in spinach if using, and cook until just wilted before serving.
Sale
Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...
  • The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
  • Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
  • 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...

Preparing the Chicken

chicken quinoa skillet recipe

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that features succulent chicken paired with nutrient-packed quinoa and a touch of sweetness from apple cider. This dish harmoniously blends savory ingredients alongside fresh vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a comforting yet healthy dinner option.

Ingredient Quantity
Chicken breasts 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, diced
Carrots 2, chopped
Celery 2 stalks, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  3. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides.
  4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper before proceeding to the next steps.
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...
  • Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
  • Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
  • Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...

Cooking the Quinoa

cooking wholesome apple cider quinoa

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a wholesome dish that combines juicy chicken with fluffy quinoa, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal. The quinoa acts as a fantastic grain base that absorbs the flavors of the herbs and apple cider, making each bite delightful and fulfilling.

Ingredient Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Apple cider 1 cup
Water 1 cup
Salt To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness.
  2. In the same skillet used for the chicken, combine the rinsed quinoa, apple cider, water, and salt.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Fluff the quinoa with a fork before adding it back to the skillet with the chicken.
Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...
  • 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
  • ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
  • ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...

Sautéing the Vegetables

saut vibrant nutritious vegetables

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a cozy, one-pan meal that seamlessly blends succulent chicken with nutrient-rich quinoa and vibrant sautéed vegetables. The dish offers a wholesome balance of flavors and textures, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep throughout the week.

Ingredient Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, diced
Bell pepper 1, diced
Carrot 1, sliced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Spinach 2 cups
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the bell pepper and carrot, sautéing for an additional 5-7 minutes until tender.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Sale
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...
  • Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
  • Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
  • Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

Adding Apple Cider

apple cider chicken skillet

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings together the sweetness of apple cider and tender chicken, combined with wholesome quinoa and sautéed vegetables. This one-pan meal not only warms the heart but also provides a healthful option for dinner any night of the week.

Ingredient Quantity
Apple cider 1 cup
Chicken breasts 2, boneless and skinless
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Bay leaf 1

Cooking Steps:

  1. Pour the apple cider into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
  3. Stir in the quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, cinnamon, and bay leaf.
  4. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and quinoa is tender.
  5. Remove the bay leaf, and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.
Sale
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...
  • 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
  • Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
  • Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use

Combining Ingredients

hearty apple cider chicken

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a hearty and nutritious meal, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep throughout the week. This dish combines the rich flavors of apple cider and succulent chicken with protein-packed quinoa, making it both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredient Quantity
Apple cider 1 cup
Chicken breasts 2, boneless and skinless
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Pour in the apple cider and bring to a simmer.
  3. Add the chicken breasts, followed by quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, cinnamon, and bay leaf.
  4. Stir well, cover the skillet, and let it cook on medium-low for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is done and quinoa is fluffy.
  5. Discard the bay leaf, then allow to sit for a few minutes before serving.
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...
  • 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
  • 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
  • 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...

Simmering the Skillet

apple cider chicken skillet

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that beautifully marries savory and sweet flavors. With tender chicken infused with the aromatic essence of apple cider, complemented by nutritious quinoa and a medley of vegetables, this dish is not only satisfying but also a nourishing option for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredient Quantity
Apple cider 1 cup
Chicken breasts 2, boneless and skinless
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Pour in the apple cider, bringing it to a simmer.
  3. Add the chicken breasts, quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, cinnamon, and bay leaf.
  4. Stir to combine, cover the skillet, and let it simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and quinoa is fluffy.
  5. Remove the bay leaf and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.
Sale
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...
  • Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
  • Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
  • Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...

Seasoning for Flavor

flavorful apple cider chicken

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a flavorful and nourishing dish that combines the sweetness of apple cider with hearty chicken, nutritious quinoa, and fresh vegetables. This one-pan meal is perfect for a warming family dinner or for meal prepping, offering a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredient Quantity
Apple cider 1 cup
Chicken breasts 2, boneless and skinless
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add apple cider and bring to a simmer.
  3. Stir in chicken breasts, quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, cinnamon, and bay leaf.
  4. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked and quinoa is fluffy.
  5. Remove the bay leaf, let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Sale
Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensils Set - Heat-Resistant Nonstick Silicone &...
  • Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
  • Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....

Serving Suggestions

apple cider chicken quinoa

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal that combines the flavors of tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and the sweetness of apple cider, making it a comforting and nutritious option for family dinners. It’s perfect for serving during cozy evenings or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Ingredient Quantity
Apple cider 1 cup
Chicken breasts 2, boneless and skinless
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add the apple cider and bring to a simmer.
  3. Stir in chicken breasts, quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, cinnamon, and bay leaf.
  4. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked and quinoa is fluffy.
  5. Remove the bay leaf, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great...
  • 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
  • Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
  • Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock

Storing Leftovers

hearty apple cider dish

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a flavorful and hearty one-pan dish that beautifully blends wholesome ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and the sweet notes of apple cider creates a comforting meal that is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, it’s a dish that will leave you satisfied.

Ingredient Quantity
Apple cider 1 cup
Chicken breasts 2, boneless and skinless
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add apple cider and bring to a simmer.
  3. Stir in chicken breasts, quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, cinnamon, and bay leaf.
  4. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked and quinoa is fluffy.
  5. Remove bay leaf and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Benefits of the Dish

nutritious apple cider chicken

Apple Cider Chicken-Quinoa Skillet is a nutritious and satisfying meal packed with protein and whole grains. This dish combines lean chicken with nutrient-rich quinoa, complemented by the sweetness of apple cider and a medley of vegetables, making it both delicious and wholesome. It is an excellent source of key vitamins and minerals while providing a well-rounded balance of macronutrients, making it a perfect option for health-conscious eaters.

Ingredient Quantity
Apple cider 1 cup
Chicken breasts 2, boneless and skinless
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add apple cider and bring to a simmer.
  3. Stir in chicken breasts, quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, cinnamon, and bay leaf.
  4. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked and quinoa is fluffy.
  5. Remove bay leaf and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.

Amazon disclaimer.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Follow:
Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.