Lindsey Chastain

Lindsey Chastain is 1/2 of the husband and wife team that make The Waddle and Cluck run. She is also the founder of The Writing Detective and A Pen and a Page.

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Apricot Glazed Chicken: A Simple, Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion

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Cooking at home can be a rewarding experience, but sometimes we find ourselves stuck in a routine, making the same dishes over and over again. If you’re looking for something a little different, but not too complicated, apricot glazed chicken is a great option. This dish combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of apricot preserves, creating a balanced meal that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat.

Why Apricot Glazed Chicken?

Apricot glazed chicken is a versatile dish that can be served for a family dinner or even a small gathering with friends. It’s not too fancy, but it has enough flavor to make it special. The glaze, made from apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, brings a unique mix of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that complement the chicken well.

This recipe is also great for those who want a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a tasty dinner ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when time is limited.

The Ingredients

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need for this dish:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean source of protein and cook quickly. They are a blank canvas that easily absorbs the flavors of the glaze.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
Apricot Preserves: The key ingredient for the glaze. Apricot preserves add a sweet and fruity flavor that pairs well with the savory elements in the dish.
Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor that balances the sweetness of the apricot preserves.
Dijon Mustard: Brings a slight tang and depth of flavor to the glaze.
Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken, olive oil helps create a golden-brown crust while adding a subtle richness to the dish.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and a touch of acidity, which helps balance the sweetness of the apricots.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a savory depth that complements the other flavors in the glaze.
Fresh Thyme: Optional, but it adds a nice herbal note and a touch of color as a garnish.

Fresh Chicken Breasts Apricot Glazed Chicken — Fresh Chicken Breasts

Step-by-Step Preparation

Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s go through the steps to make apricot glazed chicken.

1. Preheat Your Oven

The first step is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the chicken, which helps it cook evenly.

2. Season the Chicken

Next, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is crucial because it builds the foundation of flavor for the dish. Salt enhances the chicken’s natural flavors, while pepper adds a bit of mild heat.

3. Make the Apricot Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir until the mixture is well blended. This glaze is what will give the chicken its delicious flavor, so take your time to ensure it’s mixed thoroughly.

Apricot fruits and apricot jam Apricot Glazed Chicken

4. Sear the Chicken

Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Searing the chicken helps lock in the juices and gives it a nice color.

5. Apply the Glaze

Once the chicken is seared, pour the apricot glaze over the chicken breasts in the skillet. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the glaze. The skillet will go directly into the oven, so there’s no need to transfer the chicken to another dish.

6. Bake the Chicken

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the glaze has caramelized slightly. The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it’s a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven. If you’re using fresh thyme, sprinkle it over the top as a garnish. The thyme adds a subtle herbal flavor and makes the dish look more appealing. Serve the chicken with a side of rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Apricot glazed chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

Rice: A simple side of white or brown rice works well with this dish. The rice can absorb the extra glaze, making each bite flavorful.
Roasted Vegetables: Honey glazed carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a nice contrast to the sweet glaze on the chicken.
Mashed Potatoes: For a more comforting meal, serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the sweetness of the chicken.

Tips for Success

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make a big difference in the flavor of the glaze. While you can use bottled lemon juice or pre-minced garlic, fresh ingredients will give you the best results.
Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken before baking helps create a flavorful crust and locks in moisture, ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Overcooking can make the chicken dry, so it’s important to pull it out of the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Customize the Glaze: If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the apricot mixture. For a sweeter glaze, you can add a touch more apricot preserves.

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is that it’s easy to customize. Here are a few variations you can try:

Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are more forgiving if slightly overcooked and have a richer flavor.
Grilled Apricot Glazed Chicken: For a summer twist, grill the chicken instead of baking it. Sear the chicken on the grill and then brush on the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.
Apricot Glazed Pork Chops: The apricot glaze works well with pork too. Try it on boneless pork chops for a different take on this dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, apricot glazed chicken stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store the chicken in an airtight container to keep it fresh. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and cook until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the glaze may not be as glossy.

Conclusion

Apricot glazed chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The combination of sweet apricot preserves, tangy Dijon mustard, and savory soy sauce creates a delicious glaze that pairs perfectly with juicy chicken breasts. Plus, with the ability to customize the recipe and pair it with a variety of sides, this dish is versatile enough to fit into your regular meal rotation.

So next time you’re looking for a new recipe to try, give apricot glazed chicken a go. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Enjoy!