Irresistible Apricot Glazed Chicken Recipe
You’ll discover that Apricot Glazed Chicken represents a masterful balance of flavor techniques, merging the stone fruit’s natural sweetness with umami-rich soy and pungent Dijon. This method of glazing poultry dates back to classical French cuisine, though it’s been adapted across global kitchens. As you prepare to explore the precise steps and critical timing of this dish, you’ll need to understand the fundamental principles of heat control and sugar caramelization that make this preparation truly exceptional.
Overview
- Apricot preserves combine with Dijon mustard and soy sauce to create a sweet-savory glaze for chicken breasts.
- Chicken should be seared for 4-5 minutes per side before being brushed with glaze and finished in a 375°F oven.
- Each serving contains 420 calories and 35g of protein, making it a nutritious main course option.
- Pat chicken completely dry and season with salt and pepper before cooking for optimal browning and flavor.
- Multiple applications of glaze during cooking create layers of flavor and a glossy, caramelized finish.
A Sweet-Savory Classic – Apricot Glazed Chicken
Apricot Glazed Chicken transforms ordinary poultry into an elegant entrée that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This dish combines the natural sweetness of apricot preserves with savory seasonings to create a glossy, caramelized glaze that coats tender, juicy chicken. Originally inspired by fruit-based glazes common in both Asian and Western cuisines, this recipe has become a beloved dinner option that’s both sophisticated enough for special occasions and simple enough for weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Bring chicken to room temperature and pat dry with paper towels
- Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides
- Mix apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic in a bowl
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat
- Sear chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Brush chicken with glaze mixture
- Transfer skillet to oven and cook 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- Brush with additional glaze every 5 minutes
- Rest chicken 5-7 minutes before serving
- Garnish with fresh herbs
Top Tips
- Choose high-quality apricot preserves for the best flavor
- Pat chicken completely dry for better browning
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperature
- Allow multiple layers of glaze to set between applications
- Monitor closely during final glazing to prevent burning
- Reserve some glaze for serving
Variations
- Honey Apricot: Add 2 tablespoons honey for extra sweetness
- Spicy Version: Include 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Asian-Inspired: Add rice vinegar and sesame oil
- Herb-Enhanced: Mix in fresh rosemary and thyme
- Stone Fruit Blend: Combine with peach preserves
Nutritional Guide
| Per Serving (1 chicken breast) | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 38g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This dish provides lean protein from chicken breast while the apricot glaze adds natural sugars. To reduce sugar content, use sugar-free preserves or reduce glaze portion. Serve with vegetables or whole grains for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Canned Apricots Instead of Apricot Preserves?
You’ll notice flavor differences when substituting canned apricots for preserves. While you can blend canned apricots to approximate the texture, they’re less concentrated and sweeter, so you’ll need to reduce them first.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Apricot Glazed Chicken?
You’ll love pairing roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts and carrots with their caramelized edges. A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs and citrus notes creates the perfect balance for your glazed entrée.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Apricot Glazed Chicken?
For ideal food safety, you’ll want to store your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below. Don’t leave poultry at room temperature.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep and Freezing?
You’ll find this perfect for meal prep! Store portions in airtight containers for 3-4 days refrigerated. For freezing tips, wrap individual servings tightly and freeze up to 2 months for best quality results.
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
You’ll find chicken thighs are an excellent substitute, offering more flavor and moisture due to higher fat content. Just adjust cooking time down by 5-8 minutes since thighs typically cook faster than breasts.
Before You Go
You’ll find Apricot Glazed Chicken exemplifies the perfect balance of technical execution and flavor complexity. The lacquered finish, achieved through precise temperature control and proper glaze reduction, showcases your mastery of caramelization. When executed correctly, the protein’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) while maintaining ideal moisture content. This method demonstrates classical glazing techniques while incorporating contemporary fusion elements.
