There is something truly comforting about a warm, hearty skillet full of fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the Harvest Chicken Skillet delivers that cozy feeling in every bite. This delicious dish brings together tender chicken, smoked turkey bacon, and a colorful mix of fall veggies that burst with flavor and texture. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekend dinners, this Harvest Chicken Skillet is both effortless to make and incredibly satisfying, making it a sure winner for your next meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seasonal Goodness: Packed with fresh fall vegetables that brighten the dish with vibrant colors and natural sweetness.
Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find pantry staples and fresh produce for a quick yet delicious dinner.
Comfort Food Made Healthy: Protein-rich chicken and nutrient-dense veggies make it balanced and hearty.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked together in one skillet for ultimate convenience.
Flavor-Packed: Smoky notes from turkey bacon and the warmth of herbs create a satisfying depth of flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Harvest Chicken Skillet plays an important role, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that keep every forkful exciting. From tender chicken pieces to crunchy seasonal vegetables, here’s what you’ll want to gather before starting.

Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless): Juicy and tender, they absorb flavors well and stay moist during cooking.
Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a delicious smoky richness without overpowering the dish.
Butternut Squash: Offers a natural sweetness and firm texture that complements the savory elements.
Brussels Sprouts: Adds a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor when sautéed.
Red Onion: Provides mild sweetness and color contrast.
Garlic Cloves: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
Apple Cider Vinegar (natural): Brings a subtle tang that brightens all the other flavors.
Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Enhances umami and complexity without overwhelming the palate.
Fresh Thyme: Infuses an herby warmth that pairs perfectly with chicken and squash.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and roasting to create a beautifully golden finish.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.

Variations for Harvest Chicken Skillet

One of the joys of the Harvest Chicken Skillet is how easy it is to tweak depending on your mood, pantry, or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own!

Vegetable Swap: Replace butternut squash with sweet potatoes or carrots for a different but equally tasty autumn vibe.
Protein Alternatives: Use chicken breast or turkey slices to lighten the dish up.
Spice Twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to introduce a smoky warmth.
Herb Variations: Try rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a distinct herbal note.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based chicken alternatives and omit turkey bacon, adding extra mushrooms for umami.

Easy Harvest Chicken Skillet for Cozy Dinners

How to Make Harvest Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry and chopping the butternut squash into bite-sized cubes. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, slice the red onion thinly, and mince the garlic cloves. Keep your smoked turkey bacon close by for quick cooking later.

Step 2: Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside, leaving the rendered fat behind to add smoky depth to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Using the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed and sear the chicken thighs until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside with the bacon to rest.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Add the diced butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and sliced red onion to the skillet. Sauté over medium heat until they begin to soften and caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic towards the end to avoid burning.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken and turkey bacon to the pan. Splash in some apple cider vinegar (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), then sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over everything. Stir gently and let simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Harvest Chicken Skillet

Use Room Temperature Chicken: Letting chicken come to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking and juiciness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed so veggies brown well and chicken gets a beautiful crust.
Adjust Acid Carefully: Apple cider vinegar adds brightness; add gradually to suit your taste.
Let It Rest: Allow the skillet to sit off heat for a few minutes before serving so flavors deepen.
Fresh Herbs Are Key: Add fresh thyme or other herbs last to preserve their vibrant aroma and flavor.

How to Serve Harvest Chicken Skillet

Garnishes

Top your Harvest Chicken Skillet with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for a vibrant crunch that elevates the dish’s texture and presentation.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or a simple green salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, creating a balanced and inviting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the skillet family-style straight from the pan surrounded by small bowls of extra toppings like plant-based shredded cheese, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of tahini sauce (natural) to let everyone customize their plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Harvest Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even better.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave to preserve the texture of the vegetables and chicken without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken breast works well though it cooks faster and can dry out if overcooked; keep an eye on timing.

What can I use if I don’t have smoked turkey bacon?

You can substitute with plant-based bacon or diced smoked tofu for a similar smoky flavor and texture.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for preparing ahead on busy days.

Can I make this Harvest Chicken Skillet spicier?

Definitely, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper during cooking will give it a pleasant kick.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or kale to customize the dish based on what you have or prefer.

Final Thoughts

The Harvest Chicken Skillet is truly a all-in-one crowd pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its vibrant mix of flavors and easy preparation make it a valuable addition to your dinner recipe collection. Give it a try for your next cozy evening, and watch it quickly become a favorite in your home.

Harvest Chicken Skillet

Author: David
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

The Harvest Chicken Skillet is a warm and hearty one-pan dish featuring tender chicken thighs, smoky turkey bacon, and a vibrant mix of seasonal fall vegetables. This comforting and flavorful skillet offers a balanced meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing dinners, combining easy-to-find ingredients with a depth of flavor from fresh herbs and natural seasonings.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Peel and chop the butternut squash into bite-sized cubes. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, thinly slice the red onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Set aside the smoked turkey bacon for cooking.
Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Sauté the Chicken: Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet if needed. Sear the chicken thighs in the bacon fat until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside with the bacon to rest.
Cook the Vegetables: Add the butternut squash cubes, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced red onion to the skillet. Sauté over medium heat until they start to soften and caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic towards the end of the cooking to avoid burning, stirring gently.
Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken and turkey bacon to the skillet. Splash in apple cider vinegar (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the entire dish. Stir gently and let simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Notes

Use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking and juiciness.
Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for better browning and texture.
Adjust the amount of apple cider vinegar gradually to balance the acidity to your taste.
Allow the skillet to rest off heat for a few minutes before serving to deepen flavors.
Always add fresh herbs like thyme towards the end to preserve their vibrant aroma and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: American