STEP 1: SEASON AND Sear THE CHICKEN

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step ensures a better sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
3. Sear the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering it with aluminum foil to keep warm.

STEP 2: Sauté THE APPLE MIXTURE

1. Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and become translucent. The residual oil and fond from the chicken will add extra flavor to the onions.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and cinnamon. Cook for an additional 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Incorporate Apples: Add the sliced apples to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and spices. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the apples to soften and caramelize slightly. The natural sugars in the apples will begin to release, creating a beautiful glaze.

STEP 3: DEGLAZE AND SIMMER

1. Add Chicken Broth and Vinegar: Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
2. Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the apple mixture over the top to infuse the flavors.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the chicken remains juicy.

STEP 4: SERVE AND GARNISH

1. Plate the Dish: Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, slice the chicken into thick pieces to showcase the juicy interior. Serve it on a platter topped with the apple and onion mixture.
2. Add Garnishes: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them on top for an extra crunch.