Easy Glazed Apricot Chicken

Easy Glazed Apricot Chicken is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant main dish for gatherings. The juicy, tender chicken is coated in a glossy apricot glaze with hints of garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of spice to balance the sweetness. This dish is versatile, requiring just a handful of pantry staples to create a meal that’s full of flavor and stunning in presentation. Pair it with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, and you have a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Few Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll create a dish that tastes like you spent hours preparing.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The sweetness of the apricot is beautifully offset by the savory soy sauce and garlic, with optional chili flakes for a hint of spice.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Elegant Enough for Guests: Despite being easy to make, this dish looks and tastes impressive, perfect for entertaining.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or 1-2 thighs

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 380
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 boneless chicken thighs)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• ½ cup apricot preserves or jam
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). This ensures the chicken is flavorful and well-seasoned before cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the skillet is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, turning each piece to coat it in the glaze. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

Uncover the skillet and spoon the glaze over the chicken a few more times to ensure every piece is well-coated. Let the sauce reduce slightly if desired, then remove the skillet from heat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the glazed chicken to a serving platter and drizzle with any remaining sauce from the skillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately.

Ingredient Background

Apricot Preserves

Apricot preserves provide the signature sweetness and tanginess of this dish. Their natural fruitiness pairs beautifully with savory ingredients like soy sauce and garlic, creating a balanced glaze that clings perfectly to the chicken. If you prefer less sweetness, opt for a low-sugar apricot jam.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce adds a salty, umami-rich depth to the glaze, balancing the sweetness of the apricot preserves and creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess and complexity to the glaze, helping to round out the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Garlic

Fresh minced garlic enhances the savory profile of the dish and complements the sweetness of the glaze.

Technique Tips

• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns evenly. Overcrowding the skillet can result in steaming rather than searing.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Glaze Consistency: If the glaze becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to loosen it.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Over Rice: Serve the glazed chicken atop fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a complete, colorful meal.
• In a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing twist.

Additional Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Chicken: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
• Deglaze the Pan: After searing the chicken, deglaze the pan with a splash of water or chicken broth before making the glaze. This adds extra flavor to the sauce.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance, or omit them entirely for a milder dish.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Apricot Chicken: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier glaze.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Bone-In Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze: Let the cooked chicken cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content of the dish.
• Skinless Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for skinless chicken thighs for a leaner yet flavorful option.
• Sugar-Free Preserves: Use sugar-free apricot preserves for a lower-calorie glaze.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Weeknight Dinner: Serve with a simple side of steamed broccoli and white rice for a no-fuss family meal.
• Dinner Party Main: Plate the chicken with roasted potatoes and a seasonal green salad for an elegant presentation.
• Holiday Gathering: This dish is festive enough to serve as part of a holiday menu, especially when garnished with fresh herbs and citrus slices.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for even browning and cooking.
• Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken and ensuring even coating with the glaze.
• Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking the chicken’s doneness without cutting into it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruit preserves?

Yes, peach, pineapple, or mango preserves work well as substitutes for apricot preserves, offering a similar sweetness and tang.

2. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Absolutely. After searing the chicken, transfer it to an oven-safe dish, pour the glaze over the top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

3. Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, bone-in chicken works beautifully but may require an additional 5-10 minutes of cooking time.

4. How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Keep the heat at medium to low while cooking the glaze, and stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the butter and use an additional tablespoon of olive oil instead.

6. Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, the chicken can be frozen after cooking. Store it with the glaze to preserve moisture and flavor.

7. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans can be added to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

8. What sides go best with this dish?

Rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with the sweet and savory flavors of the apricot glaze.

Conclusion
Easy Glazed Apricot Chicken is a delightful dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The sweet and tangy glaze, paired with tender, juicy chicken, creates a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a dinner party, or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees success. Give it a try and watch it become a regular in your kitchen repertoire!

Print