Autumn Apple Chicken

Autumn is almost here!  Just a few more days and with that season come thoughts of apples, pumpkins, squash, casseroles, soups, stews, slow cooker meals on busy days and warm drinks.

Autumn in New York is amazing and not just because of the colors all around us.....we have a large apple harvest and here in eastern NY, we have many farms on the outlying areas that sell apples or let you pick your own.  

This recipe is one I found that features gala apples (my oldest daughter's fave) but I'm guessing a crisp Empire would do just as nicely.

image courtesy of tasteofhome website

AUTUMN APPLE CHICKEN

1 Tbsp canola oil

2-3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

1/4 tsp ground black pepper

dash of salt

2 medium Gala apples, chopped

1/2 sweet onion, chopped

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

1/2 c. BBQ sauce

1/4 c. apple cider or apple juice

1 Tbsp honey

• In a large skillet, heat the oil and then brown the chicken on both sides; sprinkle with the salt and pepper.
• Transfer to a slow cooker and top with the chopped apples.
• Add onion to the same skillet; cook over medium heat, stirring often for about 2-3 minutes or until tender.
• Add garlic and cook another minute longer.  
• Stir in BBQ sauce, juice, and honey.  Increase heat to medium high. Stir well to loosen any browned bits of garlic and onion.
• Pour over chicken and apples.
• Cook, covered, on low setting for 3-4 hours.

MEAL IDEA:

Serve with roasted sweet potatoes and zucchini.  Add steamed peas and/or steamed green beans.

You can also serve this over plain cous-cous or orzo and add veggies of your choice.

I sprinkled a little bit of cinnamon and nutmeg to the sauce.  

ENJOY!!