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

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.