Apricot Chicken Recipe | Easy Sticky Apricot Chicken

If you’re a fan of the delicious combination of sweet and savory, you’re going to love this easy Apricot Chicken recipe! The tender chicken thighs are coated in a sweet apricot glaze, packed with rich flavors from garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Why You'll Love This Craveworthy Chicken Recipe

• Quick and Easy. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
• Sweet and Savory. The blend of apricot preserves and savory seasonings creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
• Minimal Ingredients. Using pantry staples like soy sauce, mustard, and garlic makes this dish accessible and simple to prepare.
• Versatile. Serve it with rice, veggies, or even roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

With a simple yet rich apricot glaze, this Apricot Chicken will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken and the sticky-sweet apricot sauce is a match made in heaven. Plus, you only need a handful of ingredients to whip up this tasty dinner in no time.

What Does Apricot Chicken Taste Like?

Apricot Chicken offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The apricot preserves create a rich, fruity sweetness, while ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard balance the dish with savory and tangy undertones. The result is a tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze

Is Apricot Chicken Healthy?

Yes, Apricot Chicken can be a healthy option when using skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Apricots are naturally sweet and loaded with vitamins, while chicken provides lean protein.

If you're watching sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of apricot preserves or opt for a low-sugar variety.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Chicken Thighs- Bone-in and skin-on for maximum flavor, or opt for skinless for a lighter version.
• Apricot Preserves- This is the sweet base of the glaze, adding a fruity depth to the dish.
• Apricots (optional)- Adds natural sweetness, color, and texture to the sauce.
• Soy Sauce- For that umami flavor that balances the sweetness.
• Onion- Roughly diced for texture and earthy flavor.
• Garlic- Freshly minced garlic gives a punch of flavor.
• Dijon Mustard- Adds tang and depth, cutting through the sweetness of the apricots.
• Olive Oil- Used for searing the chicken to crispy perfection.
• Salt and Pepper- To season the chicken and enhance the overall flavors.

How To Make Apricot Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Create the Apricot Glaze. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the apricot preserves, halved apricots, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Let the glaze simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Simmer the Chicken. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the glaze over the thighs, and let it simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and absorbs all the sweet and savory flavors.
4. Serve and Enjoy. Transfer the chicken to a serving dish, spoon extra glaze over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips And Tricks

To make the most flavorful and juicy Apricot Chicken, follow these tips:

• Sear the Chicken First. Searing locks in the juices and gives the chicken a nice crispy skin.
• Don’t Skip the Garlic. Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to the glaze.
• Simmer Low and Slow. Let the chicken simmer in the glaze for a richer taste.
• Use a Meat Thermometer. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked thighs.

Variations

If you love the base recipe but want to experiment with different flavors, try these delicious variations:

• Spicy- Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the glaze for a kick of heat.
• Herb-Infused- Add rosemary or thyme to the sauce for a more earthy flavor.
• Apricot Chicken with Pineapple- Add pineapple chunks to the sauce for an extra layer of tropical sweetness.
• Gluten-Free- Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

What To Eat With Apricot Chicken

Apricot Chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complement the dish:

• Rice- Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the extra sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables- Try roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans for a healthy and colorful side.
• Mashed Potatoes- Creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the sweet and savory apricot glaze.

How Long Does It Last?

Apricot Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors intensify as it sits, so it’s perfect for meal prepping.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! Apricot Chicken freezes well. Simply place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

More Easy Chicken Recipes

• Instant Pot Butter Chicken
• Nashville Hot Chicken
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Cajun Chicken Alfredo
• Chicken Fajita Soup
• Spatchcock Chicken

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