When you're short on time but still want a delicious and satisfying meal, this Quick Apricot Chicken recipe is the perfect solution. Combining tender chicken with a sweet and tangy apricot glaze, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a fast yet flavorful dinner option. Follow this simple recipe for a quick culinary delight!
What is Quick Apricot Chicken?
Quick Apricot Chicken is a fast and easy dish that features chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a delightful apricot sauce. The sauce, made with apricot preserves, soy sauce, and a touch of Dijon mustard, provides a sweet and savory glaze that transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients List for Quick Apricot Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Apricot Glaze:
- ½ cup apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Protein: Use pork chops, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy version.
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon juice to the glaze for a citrusy flavor.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme for added flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Apricot Glaze:
- In the same skillet, add the apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and chicken broth or water.
- Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Combine Chicken and Glaze:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, turning to coat it in the apricot glaze.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and the chicken to heat through.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer to serving plates.
- Spoon any remaining glaze over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
How to Cook Quick Apricot Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Quick Apricot Chicken involves a few straightforward steps to achieve a delicious meal in no time:
- Season and Sear: Season the chicken well and sear it in a hot skillet to develop a nice golden crust.
- Make the Glaze: Quickly whisk together the apricot glaze ingredients and simmer to combine the flavors.
- Coat and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet to coat it in the glaze and allow it to thicken slightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Not Deglazing the Skillet: Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet when adding the glaze ingredients. This adds extra flavor to the sauce.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Serve Hot: Apricot chicken is best served hot with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the delicious glaze.
- Pair with Vegetables: Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Quick Apricot Chicken
- Main Course: Serve as the main course with your favorite sides.
- Salad Topping: Slice the chicken and serve it on top of a fresh green salad.
- Wraps: Use the chicken to make delicious wraps with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra glaze.
Presentation Ideas for Quick Apricot Chicken
- Platter: Arrange the chicken pieces on a large platter with extra glaze drizzled over the top and garnished with fresh herbs.
- Individual Plates: Serve each chicken breast or thigh individually with a side of rice and vegetables.
- Family Style: Serve the chicken straight from the skillet at the table for a casual, family-style meal.
Quick Apricot Chicken Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor of the glaze.
- Don’t Rush the Sear: Allow the chicken to develop a good sear before flipping to ensure a nice crust.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the glaze and adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more apricot preserves or balancing with additional soy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, bone-in chicken pieces can be used, but the cooking time will be longer. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
Q: How can I make the dish less sweet? A: Reduce the amount of apricot preserves and balance with additional Dijon mustard or a splash of vinegar.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time. Store separately and reheat gently before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of apricot preserves? A: Peach or pineapple preserves can be used as a substitute for a similar flavor profile.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Conclusion
Quick Apricot Chicken is a delightful and speedy dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a fast, flavorful meal. With its sweet and savory glaze and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Follow this simple guide to create a delicious and satisfying dinner in no time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
PrintQuick Apricot Chicken Recipe
This quick apricot chicken recipe features a tangy apricot glaze and is perfect for a fast, flavorful weeknight dinner. Easy to make and delicious with chicken breasts or thighs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Apricot Glaze:
- ½ cup apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
Substitutions and Variations:
- Different Protein: Use pork chops, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy version.
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon juice to the glaze for a citrusy flavor.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme for added flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Apricot Glaze:
- In the same skillet, add the apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add the chicken broth or water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze is slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the glaze over the chicken to coat.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more chicken broth or water if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 800mg
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