Apricot Chicken

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 9, 2025

Apricot Chicken is a recipe that truly hits the spot, combining sweet and savory goodness in every bite. If you’ve been looking for a dish that’s quick and easy to whip up after a long day, you’ve found the right one. Imagine walking into your kitchen, the aroma of tasty chicken wafting through the air while your family eagerly anticipates dinner. The best part? You only need one pan for everything, making cleanup a breeze—who doesn’t love that?

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This dish features chicken simmered in a rich apricot sauce, blending delicious flavors that appeal to everyone, even the pickiest eaters. With a list of simple ingredients, you’ll find that preparing Apricot Chicken can fit right into your busy weeknight routine. Whether you’re cooking for the family or having friends over, this meal is sure to impress. So grab your apron, and let’s get started on this delightful culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Apricot Chicken

This Apricot Chicken dish is all about convenience and flavor. First off, it’s super quick and easy to prepare, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. You don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, right? This recipe makes sure you can enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle.

Not to mention, the sweet and savory flavor profile is simply mouthwatering. The blend of apricot preserves and savory ingredients creates an explosion of taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.

And let’s talk cleanup—using just one pan means you can enjoy your meal without worrying about piles of dishes afterward. Trust me, this dish is perfect for when you’re short on time but want something delicious and satisfying!

What is Apricot Chicken?

Apricot Chicken is a delectable dish that highlights chicken simmered in a savory and sweet apricot sauce. It combines chicken with fruit preserves and various aromatic ingredients, creating a flavor fusion that appeals to many. The sweetness from the apricots balances the savory elements beautifully, making it a delicious option for anyone who loves unique flavor combinations. This dish offers a delightful twist on traditional chicken recipes, and you won’t want to miss out!

Ingredients for Apricot Chicken

To make this scrumptious dish, gather the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon oil (olive, avocado, or canola)
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ to 2 pounds)
1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup apricot preserves
½ cup no-pulp orange juice
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons honey BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon cold water

With these basic ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to cooking up some delicious Apricot Chicken.

Prepare the Chicken

Dice Chicken Breasts

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch. It’s important to adjust the size based on your cooking time preferences. Smaller pieces cook faster, while larger bits may take some extra minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Sauté Chicken and Onion

Now, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your chosen oil. Toss in the diced chicken, onion, and kosher salt. Cook everything for about 5-8 minutes until the chicken turns mostly white and is cooked through. Once it’s ready, drain any excess liquid from the skillet. This step sets the stage for the tasty sauce that will follow.

Create the Apricot Sauce

Whisk Sauce Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, orange juice, minced garlic, honey BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well until everything is combined. This vibrant sauce is where the magic happens!

Simmer the Sauce with Chicken

Pour the prepared apricot sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-8 minutes. This step allows all those flavors to meld beautifully, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165℉.

Thicken the Sauce

To make the sauce thicker, take a small bowl and combine the cornstarch with cold water, whisking until it’s smooth. Add this mixture to the skillet and let it simmer for an additional minute. You’ll notice the sauce transforming into a delightful consistency, perfect for drenching your chicken.

Serve Apricot Chicken

Final Touches

Now it’s time to enjoy! Serve a generous scoop of Apricot Chicken over a bed of cooked white rice or your preferred base. Drizzle with any extra sauce and, if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. It’s all about those finishing touches!

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Apricot Chicken, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables. They’ll add a fresh crunch and extra nutrition to your meal. Alternatively, a side salad would balance the flavors and bring a refreshing contrast to the dish.

Tips for Success

A few quick tips can take your Apricot Chicken to the next level. First, ensure that your chicken is fully cooked. This is key for food safety and flavor. Also, if you prefer a sweeter dish, feel free to adjust the amount of honey or apricot preserves to tailor it to your taste.

Variations

If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, why not substitute chicken for turkey? This offers a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, adding crushed red pepper can give your dish a spicy twist that some may find appealing.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the flavors and textures.

Pairing Ideas

Serving this dish alongside fluffy rice or quinoa creates a hearty meal that feeds the soul. For a beverage, a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the Apricot Chicken, making your dinner even more enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for apricot chicken?

Yes, you can! However, make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Thawing ensures even cooking throughout.

How do I make the sauce spicy?

A simple solution is to add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce directly into the apricot sauce during cooking. Adjust to your preferred level of heat!

Can I make apricot chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing it in advance is a great idea. It reheats nicely and makes for quick dinners throughout the week.

Is apricot chicken gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap in gluten-free soy sauce, and you’re good to go!

What can I use instead of apricot preserves?

If you don’t have apricot preserves on hand, other fruit options like peach or mango preserves can give you a different yet delicious flavor.

With this flavorful Apricot Chicken recipe, you are not just creating a dish; you’re creating a delightful dining experience. With its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process—it’s going to be a delicious ride!

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Apricot Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Apricot Chicken

What is Apricot Chicken?

Ingredients for Apricot Chicken