One evening, as I was looking for new ways to whip up an easy apricot preserves chicken recipe dinner, I stumbled upon this easy apricot preserves chicken recipe.

In the past, I’ve tried everything from lemon chicken to Russian chicken and even sour chicken. Still, this tangy sauce made from a jar of apricot preserves and a dash of balsamic vinegar was an instant favorite.

On any night of the week, especially on busy days, I lean towards easy chicken recipes. The apricot chicken thighs are a weeknight-friendly skillet dinner. I’ve found that using skin-on chicken thighs results in a more flavorful dish than using boneless skinless breasts.

The sauce ingredients, which include the apricot preserves for the chicken recipe and a teaspoon of onion powder, blend beautifully in a small saucepan over medium heat.

On days when I have plenty of time, I prefer to make the apricot sauce from scratch. But for those days when I have less time, the store-bought apricot jam from most grocery stores does the trick.

Once the sauce has the right balance of sweetness and tang, it’s poured over the chicken, searing on a large skillet over medium-high heat. The result is sticky chicken with a golden brown hue.

Some helpful tips I’ve picked up include patting the chicken dry with paper towels before placing them in the hot pan. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that deep golden brown color.

Once done, place the chicken on a baking sheet or a deep pan lined with aluminum foil for an easy cleanup.

There are different ways to serve this dish. My favorite track is alongside white rice or rice pilaf. However, if you’re looking for a more robust accompaniment, you can make a salad dressing using some of the apricot sauce, lemon zest, black pepper, and Russian dressing.

Drizzle this over a bed of greens topped with green onions and sesame seeds.

On a side note, if you ever want to switch things up, the apricot sauce works wonders with pork chops, too. Remember, if you’re watching your daily values and sticking to a specific calorie diet, always tend to the portion sizes. I’ve served this meal at several family dinners, and it’s always been a hit.

Whether served on a simple sheet pan or a cast iron skillet, this dish will impress. And the best part? The leftovers taste even better the next day. With words like this, every night feels like a special occasion.

So, if you’re searching for an easy meal with g protein, this apricot chicken thigh dish is one to try.

Essential Ingredients for Apricot Preserves Chicken Recipe

Explore key ingredients for succulent apricot glazed chicken.

To make a mouthwatering apricot glazed chicken, you must gather some essential ingredients, including Catalina dressing, that work harmoniously to create a delectable flavor profile.

Thanks to the Catalina dressing, the chicken will have a tangy and sweet glaze that is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the critical components of this irresistible dish: baked apricot chicken breasts with Catalina dressing.

Apricots: The star of the show

Apricots are the main ingredient in this recipe, thanks to their distinctive sweet and tangy flavor. The dressing perfectly complements the dish. Thanks to the juicy stone fruits, the Glaze for this chicken dish has a burst of natural sweetness.

It perfectly complements the savory taste of the chicken dressing. Hi, when choosing apricots, thanks for looking for ripe ones that are not overly soft or mushy.

Preserves: Sticky Goodness

Another crucial element in the recipe is apricot preserves, which serve as the base for our glaze dressing. Thanks to the apricot preserves, our Glaze has a delightful flavor.

Thanks to these sticky preserves, the fruity flavor of the chicken is intensified, and a luscious texture is provided to coat the dressing. Opt for high-quality apricot preserves, thanks to their natural taste and without artificial additives or excessive sugar content.

Soy sauce: Umami magic

Hi, thanks for checking out our blog post on apricot glaze dressing. Soy sauce brings an umami-rich depth of flavor to our dressing. Hi, thanks for reading! Its savory notes enhance the overall taste profile, balancing out the sweetness of the apricots.

Thanks for trying out this recipe for baked apricot chicken breasts. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer to control your sodium intake.

Garlic: A punch of aroma

Garlic adds a delightful aromatic element to our recipe. Its spicy yet fragrant flavor complements sweet and savory dishes, making it an excellent addition to baked apricot chicken breasts. Thanks. Hi! Thanks for reading. For the best flavor infusion, mince or finely chop fresh garlic cloves.

Ginger: A zesty kick

Adding ginger to our apricot glazed chicken provides a zesty kick thanks to its unique flavor. Thanks to its versatility, this spice adds warmth and depth while enhancing other dishes’ flavors. Grate or finely mince fresh ginger root for maximum impact. Hi!

Dijon mustard: Tangy complexity

Dijon mustard contributes a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to our Glaze hi, elevating the overall taste experience. The creamy texture helps bind all the ingredients together and adds a layer of complexity to the dish.

Honey: Sweetness with a hint of caramelization

To further enhance the sweetness and create a beautiful caramelized glaze, we incorporate honey into our recipe. This natural sweetener adds depth and richness to the dish while promoting a gorgeous golden color during baking.

Pantry staples: The backbone of any recipe

In addition to these star ingredients, you’ll need some pantry staples to complete your apricot glazed chicken. These may include olive oil for cooking, salt and pepper for seasoning, and cornstarch for thickening the Glaze if desired. Make sure you have these items on hand before you start cooking.

Now that we’ve explored the essential ingredients for apricot glazed chicken, it’s time to gather everything you need and get ready to cook up this tantalizing dish!

Easy Sweet Baked Apricot Preserves Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious chicken recipe that will impress your taste buds, look no further than this baked apricot chicken. With just a few simple ingredients and basic cooking techniques, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will become a family favorite.

So, let’s get started on how to make this delectable apricot preserves chicken recipe!

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Resting Time: 10 minutes

Type of Meal: Dinner/Main Course

Country or Region Recipe Originated From a Fusion of American and Mediterranean

Type of Diet: Non-vegetarian

Equipment Needed:

1. Oven
2. Baking dish
3. Mixing bowl
4. Measuring spoons and cups
5. Kitchen knife
6. Cutting board
7. Pastry brush or spoon for applying preserves

Ingredients:

1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. 1 cup apricot preserves
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
5. 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
6. 2 garlic cloves, minced
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken: Wash the chicken breasts under cold water and then pat dry using a paper towel. Please place them in a baking dish.

Washing chicken before cooking can spread harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter to other foods and surfaces in the kitchen. Here are some alternatives to washing chicken:

1. Cook Directly:
   • One of the safest and easiest alternatives to washing chicken is to cook it directly. The high temperatures during cooking will kill any bacteria present in the chicken.
2. Patting Dry:
   • If the goal is to remove excess moisture from the chicken, patting it dry with paper towels is a good alternative. This will also help you achieve a better sear if you pan-fry the chicken.
3. Trimming:
   • If there are any undesirable parts or visible contaminants on the chicken, you can trim those off with a clean pair of kitchen scissors or a knife.
4. Brining:
   • Some people brine their chicken in a solution of saltwater, which can help clean the chicken and improve its flavor and texture. However, brining is not a substitute for cooking the chicken to a safe internal temperature.
5. Marinating:
   • Marinating chicken can also help to flavor it, and acidic marinades can help to tenderize the meat. Like brining, marinating is not a method to ensure food safety, and the chicken still needs to be cooked to a safe temperature.
6. Using Vinegar or Lemon Juice:
   • Some people choose to rinse their chicken with vinegar or lemon juice. While this might help clean the chicken surface, it’s not proven to remove all harmful bacteria, and cooking to the proper temperature is still necessary.

Remember, the most important step for ensuring food safety is to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any harmful bacteria.

1. Season the Chicken: Lightly season each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the apricot preserves, olive oil, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. If using, add the chopped rosemary or thyme. Stir until you get a smooth mixture.
3. Apply the Sauce: Using a pastry brush or a spoon, generously brush each chicken breast with the apricot mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and rest for 10 minutes.
6. Serve: Plate the chicken, drizzling any leftover sauce from the baking dish over the top, and enjoy with your preferred side dishes!

Notes:

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken with the apricot mixture for 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• This apricot preserves chicken recipe pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
• If you cannot find apricot preserves, peach or orange preserves can be used as a substitute. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.

Making the Apricot Chicken Glaze or Sauce

To truly elevate your baked apricot chicken dish, it’s essential to master the art of creating a delightful apricot glaze or sauce. This section will guide you through different techniques and provide tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors for your sauce.

Experimenting with Apricots in the Apricot Preserves Chicken Recipe

Apricots are the star ingredient. Here are some techniques you can try:

1. Pureed Apricots: Start by pureeing fresh or canned apricots to create a smooth base for your Glaze. This method ensures a rich and velvety texture.
2. Apricot Preserves: If you prefer a chunkier consistency, use apricot preserves instead of pureed apricots. The small fruit chunks add an extra layer of texture to your Glaze.
3. Combining Flavors: Enhance the flavor profile of your Glaze by incorporating complementary ingredients such as soy sauce, seasoning blends, or marinades. These additions can add depth and complexity to your sauce.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency and Balance

The consistency and balance of flavors in your apricot glaze play a crucial role in making it truly irresistible. Consider these tips:

1. Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on personal preference, you may want to change the sweetness level of your Glaze. Add more sugar or honey if you desire a sweeter taste, or balance it with some tanginess by incorporating lemon juice or vinegar.
2. Balancing Tanginess: If your Glaze turns out too tangy, counterbalance it by adding a touch of sweetness from brown sugar or maple syrup.
3. Thickening Your Glaze: To achieve a thicker consistency, simmer your Glaze over low heat until it reduces and thickens. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) to thicken the sauce.

Serving and Enhancing the Flavor

Once your apricot glaze is ready, it’s time to take your baked apricot chicken dish to the next level. Consider these serving suggestions and flavor enhancements:

1. Dressing Up Your Chicken: Brush the Glaze over your chicken before baking it in the oven. The heat will help caramelize the Glaze, creating a beautiful golden color and intensifying its flavors.
2. Adding Extra Flavors: For an extra burst of flavor, consider incorporating dry onion soup mix into your Glaze. This addition adds depth and complexity to your sauce.
3. Using Glaze as a Sauce: Reserve some of the Glaze to serve alongside your baked chicken as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over cooked chicken pieces for an added punch of flavor.

By mastering the art of making an apricot glaze or sauce for your chicken dish, you can elevate its taste profile and impress your family or guests with a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

Variations: Cheesy Grilled Mexican Chicken and Rice

If you want to switch from the classic apricot glazed chicken, why not try a mouthwatering variation called Cheesy Grilled Mexican Chicken and Rice? This Tex-Mex twist incorporates cheese, spices, and rice to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Explore Mexican Flavors in Your Apricot Preserves Chicken Recipe

By infusing your apricot chicken with Mexican flavors, you can take it to a new level. Start by marinating your chicken breasts or thighs in lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.

Let the flavors meld together for at least 30 minutes before grilling the chicken perfectly. Combining tangy lime and aromatic spices will add depth and complexity to your dish.

Add Cheese for an Irresistible Twist

To make your Cheesy Grilled Mexican Chicken even more delectable, top each piece of grilled chicken with a generous amount of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.

Place the chicken back on the grill or under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The creamy goodness of the cheese adds richness to the dish while complementing the vibrant flavors of the marinade.

Serve with Flavorful Rice for a Complete Meal

No Tex-Mex feast is complete without rice! Cook a batch of fluffy white or nutty brown rice as a side dish for your Cheesy Grilled Mexican Chicken. For extra flavor, sauté diced onions and bell peppers in olive oil before adding them to the cooked rice.

You can also mix in some chopped cilantro for added freshness. The combination of cheesy chicken and flavorful rice creates a harmonious balance that will satisfy both your hunger and taste buds.

Pair with Favorite Side Dishes for Added Delight

To elevate your meal even further, consider serving your Cheesy Grilled Mexican Chicken and Rice alongside some favorite side dishes. A crisp green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salsa can provide an excellent contrast to the warm and cheesy chicken.

Roasted corn on the cob or grilled vegetables seasoned with chili powder and lime juice make perfect accompaniments as well.

Serve and Enjoy!

Once your slow cooker has worked its magic and the chicken is cooked, it’s time to serve up your apricot chicken. The sweet and savory flavors of the apricot preserves and the tender chicken make for a delightful meal. Consider pairing it with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.

Using a slow cooker to make this easy, sweet baked apricot preserves chicken recipe is a game-changer. It allows you to set and forget it while still achieving delicious results. So why not give this method a try? Adapt the recipe, let your slow cooker work magic, and enjoy the tender and flavorful apricot chicken that awaits you.

Instant Pot Instructions for Apricot Chicken

Unleash a wave of sweet and savory flavors with this Instant Pot Apricot Chicken recipe. Quick, delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for those busy weeknight dinners!”

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes (including time to come to pressure)

Total Time: 25 minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes

Type of Meal: Dinner/Main Course

Country or Region Recipe Originated From a Fusion of American and Mediterranean

Type of Diet: Non-vegetarian

Equipment Needed:

1. Instant Pot or similar electric pressure cooker
2. Measuring spoons and cups
3. Kitchen knife
4. Cutting board
5. Mixing bowl
6. Wooden or silicone spatula

Ingredients:

1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2. 1 cup apricot preserves or jam
3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
4. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
5. 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
6. 2 garlic cloves, minced
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
9. Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Wash and pat dry the chicken using a paper towel. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté in Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on each side. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the chicken broth or water, and scrape the bottom of the Pot with a spatula to release any stuck bits.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and, if using, the chopped rosemary or thyme. Mix well.
5. Pressure Cook: Return the chicken pieces to the Instant Pot. Pour the apricot sauce mixture over the chicken. Secure the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick getaway.
6. Serve: Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid. Gently remove the chicken pieces, place them on serving plates, and drizzle with the apricot sauce from the Pot.

Notes:

• Chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts for a juicier result.
• The dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or green beans.
• If a thicker sauce is preferred, after removing the chicken, set the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” and let the sauce reduce for a few minutes until the desired consistency is reached. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
• You can add sliced apricots or dried apricots for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Enjoy Your Easy Sweet Baked Apricot Preserves Chicken

Now that you have all the essential ingredients and a detailed recipe for making delicious baked apricot preserves chicken, it’s time to enjoy this mouthwatering dish.

The combination of sweet and tangy flavors from the apricot glaze perfectly complements the tender chicken, creating a delightful culinary experience. Whether cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this easy recipe will impress your guests.

To make the most out of your apricot preserves chicken, serve it alongside some steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. The vibrant colors and flavors will elevate your dining experience.

Don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for an added touch of freshness.

Try this recipe today and indulge in the irresistible taste of sweet baked apricot preserves chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs – Making the Apricot Preserves Chicken Recipe

Can I use fresh apricots instead of preserves?

👉  Yes, you can use fresh apricots instead of preserves in this apricot preserves chicken recipe. Put and puree the fresh apricots until smooth, then follow the instructions as usual.

Can I substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts?

👉  Absolutely! While this recipe calls for chicken thighs, you can easily swap them for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked through.

How long does it take to bake the chicken?

👉  The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken pieces and your oven’s temperature accuracy. Generally, it takes about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to cook bone-in chicken thighs thoroughly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

👉  Certainly! You can prepare the apricot glaze and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to cook, brush the Glaze onto the chicken and follow the baking instructions.

Can I freeze leftovers?

👉  Yes, you can freeze any leftover baked apricot preserves chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

👉  Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the apricot glaze. Make sure to check all your ingredients for potential sources of gluten if you have specific dietary restrictions.

Verified from authoritative sources

1. Substituting Fresh Apricots for Preserves:
   • Fresh apricots can be used as a substitute for apricot preserves. You can puree fresh apricots to create a smooth base for your glaze. Other alternatives include using apricot jam or jelly if apricot preserves are unavailable​¹​​²​.
2. Substituting Chicken Thighs with Chicken Breasts:
   • Chicken breasts can be used in place of chicken thighs. However, they tend to cook faster and may become dry if overcooked. It’s essential to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked through without drying out​³​​⁴​​⁵​.
3. Baking Time for Chicken Thighs:
   • The baking time for chicken thighs at 375°F (190°C) can vary depending on the size and thickness of the thighs. Still, generally, it ranges between 20 to 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)​⁶​​⁷​​⁸​.
4. Preparing Apricot Glaze Ahead of Time:
   • The apricot glaze can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several days. When ready to use, you can warm it up slightly to bring it back to a more fluid consistency if necessary​⁹​​¹⁰​​¹¹​​¹²​.
5. Freezing Leftover Apricot Preserves Chicken:
   • Leftover apricot preserves chicken can be frozen and reheated. It’s best to allow the leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag for freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating​¹³​.
6. Gluten-Free Suitability:
   • The apricot preserves chicken recipe can be made gluten-free, especially if gluten-free soy sauce or tamari is used. Ensure to check all ingredients for potential sources of gluten if following a strict gluten-free diet​¹⁴​​¹⁵​.