Quick Apricot Chicken

A super delicious Quick Apricot Chicken recipe that’s quick to make and full of flavor! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With a luscious sauce made from apricot jam and orange juice, it’s a delightful twist on classic chicken dishes. Enjoy it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of apricot jam and orange juice creates a sweet and tangy sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Serve this chicken with rice, in wraps, or on salads; it adapts to various meals effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors and appealing sweetness make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand, making it easy to whip up last minute.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the chicken evenly and allowing the sauce to simmer beautifully.
• Measuring cups: Ensures you get the right amounts for your ingredients, which is crucial for optimal flavor.
• Chopping knife: A good knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and efficient, saving you time in prep.

Ingredients

A super delicious apricot chicken recipe that’s quick to make and full of flavor!

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon oil (I like to use sesame, but any neutral oil will work, too)
• 1 pound diced chicken breast
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup orange juice (or more if you prefer a thinner sauce)
• 1 cup apricot jam (OR preserves)
• 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

To Serve

• Chopped scallions
• Sesame seeds
• Rice

How to Make Quick Apricot Chicken

Step 1: Brown Chicken

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned (it doesn’t have to be cooked through yet). Stir in onions and garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Make Sauce

Pour the orange juice into the pan with the chicken, scratching the browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Reduce heat to medium. Add apricot jam, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well until combined.

Step 3: Finish Dish

Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and gently simmer until chicken is done (internal temperature should be 160°F) and sauce has thickened to your liking. Serve over rice with scallions and sesame seeds if you like.

Enjoy your flavorful Quick Apricot Chicken, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Quick Apricot Chicken

Serving Quick Apricot Chicken can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with complementary sides and garnishes. This dish is versatile enough to adapt to various tastes, making it a perfect choice for any meal.

With Rice

• A bowl of steamed rice is an excellent base for Quick Apricot Chicken, allowing the flavorful sauce to soak in.

Topped with Scallions

• Chopped scallions not only add a pop of color but also provide a fresh crunch that balances the sweetness of the apricot sauce.

Garnished with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkling sesame seeds over the chicken enhances both texture and flavor, giving it a nutty finish.

Served with Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad can contrast nicely with the richness of the chicken, adding refreshing elements.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or green beans can bring vibrancy to your plate while adding nutritional value.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce for a satisfying meal experience.

How to Perfect Quick Apricot Chicken

To ensure your Quick Apricot Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh chicken and high-quality apricot jam will significantly enhance the flavor.

• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. For a thinner consistency, add more orange juice gradually.

• Watch Cooking Time: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption without overcooking.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like ginger or chili flakes for extra zest and warmth.

• Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to add herbs like cilantro or parsley for an aromatic touch on top before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Apricot Chicken

Pairing Quick Apricot Chicken with delicious side dishes elevates your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic complement the sweet and savory notes of the chicken.

2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a healthy and nutty contrast.

3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate.

4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances the dish’s sweetness beautifully.

5. Couscous: Fluffy couscous can soak up extra sauce and adds an interesting texture alongside the chicken.

6. Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges add sweetness and fiber, making them a wholesome side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Quick Apricot Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using too much oil: Adding excess oil can make the dish greasy. Stick to the recommended tablespoon for a balanced flavor.
• Not browning the chicken enough: Proper browning adds depth to the dish. Ensure the chicken is golden before adding other ingredients for optimal taste.
• Skipping the simmering step: This step thickens the sauce and ensures chicken is fully cooked. Don’t rush it; allow time for flavors to meld.
• Choosing low-quality apricot jam: The flavor of your sauce relies heavily on good-quality jam. Opt for natural varieties without artificial ingredients.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping scallions and sesame seeds can reduce flavor and visual appeal. These add freshness and texture, so don’t skip them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Quick Apricot Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Divide into portions for easier thawing and reheating later.

Reheating Quick Apricot Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Quick Apricot Chicken.

How can I customize Quick Apricot Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color. Adjust the sweetness by using less jam or adding more citrus juice.

What can I serve with Quick Apricot Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. Consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Is Quick Apricot Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out after cooking and enjoy throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Quick Apricot Chicken is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. With simple ingredients and quick prep time, you can enjoy this flavorful dish any night of the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness level based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how quickly it becomes a family favorite!