Sweet & Savoury Apricot Chicken
Description
Sweet & Savoury Apricot Chicken is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich glaze made from apricot preserves, savory seasonings, and tangy elements. The sauce becomes glossy, slightly sticky, and perfectly balanced between sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s an easy family-friendly meal that pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
This recipe is simple enough for weeknights but flavorful enough for special dinners.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Chicken
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
For the Sweet & Savoury Apricot Sauce
¾ cup apricot preserves or apricot jam
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
½ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped
Sesame seeds
Sliced green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden (not fully cooked).
Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Apricot Sauce
In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Stir in apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, vinegar, and thyme.
Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
Return chicken to the skillet.
Spoon sauce over the chicken.
Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes until chicken reaches internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
Simmer uncovered for 3–5 minutes if you prefer a thicker glaze.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with parsley, sesame seeds, or green onions.
Serve hot with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Steamed basmati or jasmine rice
Roasted vegetables
Mashed potatoes
Couscous or quinoa
Fresh green salad
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Chicken thighs stay juicier and work very well. Cooking time may increase slightly.
2. Can I bake this instead of pan cooking?
Yes. Place seared chicken in a baking dish, pour sauce over it, and bake at 190°C (375°F) for 25–30 minutes.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store cooked chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
4. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute yellow mustard or whole grain mustard, though flavor will vary slightly.
5. Can I freeze apricot chicken?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. How do I make it less sweet?
Add more soy sauce, vinegar, or lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
7. Can I make it spicy?
Yes — add extra chili flakes, hot sauce, or chopped fresh chili.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 360 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Fiber: 1 g