apricot jelly chicken recipe

The Best apricot jelly chicken recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite apricot jelly chicken recipe, a dish that has become a staple in our household. I first discovered this recipe while browsing through a cookbook from the southern United States, where sweet and savory flavors are a hallmark of traditional cuisine.

The combination of the tangy apricot jelly and the tender chicken is absolutely divine, and I’ve found it’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions like holidays or family gatherings. One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make – it’s a great way to get dinner on the table quickly, especially on busy weeknights.

The key to making this dish truly shine is in the technique: you want to make sure your chicken is cooked just right, so it’s not too dry or too juicy. This can be achieved by cooking it low and slow, allowing the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.

When I serve this dish to my family, they always ask for seconds – and I’m happy to oblige! Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also surprisingly healthy, considering how rich it tastes.

The apricot jelly adds a natural sweetness without any added sugars, and the chicken provides lean protein. This makes it a great option for those looking for healthier meal ideas without sacrificing flavor.

So if you’re looking for a new recipe to try out, look no further than this amazing apricot jelly chicken – your taste buds (and your diet) will thank you!

Apricot Jelly Chicken

4.8 from 865 votes

Tender chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and tangy apricot jelly sauce. A simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup apricot jelly
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt

For Baking

Baking sheet
Aluminum foil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400F.
2Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3In a small mixing bowl, combine apricot jelly, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
4Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
5Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin side up.
6Spoon the apricot jelly mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, ensuring they are fully coated.
7Use your hands to gently rub the mixture into the skin and crevices of the chicken.
8Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
9The sauce will bubble and caramelize slightly, creating a beautiful glaze.
10Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
11This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute honey for a healthier option. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Apricot Jelly Chicken Works

I love serving this apricot jelly chicken at family gatherings because it’s always a crowd-pleaser – everyone raves about how delicious it is! And as an added bonus, it’s incredibly easy to reheat; simply place the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

When storing leftovers, be sure to keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months. Reheating is easy – just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apricot Jelly Chicken

Q: Can I use any type of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use either boneless or bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe. If you’re using bone-in chicken, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: What if I don’t have apricot jelly on hand?

You can substitute with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard – just combine equal parts of each and use as a substitute.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the apricot glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before applying it to the chicken.

Q: How do I ensure my chicken is cooked through?

The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer – aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also check by cutting into one of the breasts; if the juices run clear, then it’s done.

Q: Can I use this recipe as a main course or side dish?

This recipe makes a fantastic main course when served with some roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. Alternatively, you can serve it as a side dish alongside your favorite entrees.

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