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 special gatherings. With its sweet and tangy sauce, this chicken meal offers a delightful balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served over rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a last-minute dinner.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of apricot jam, orange juice, and BBQ sauce creates a rich and delicious glaze that elevates the chicken’s taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
• Easy Cleanup: One skillet means less mess in the kitchen—perfect for busy cooks!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this dish even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning chicken evenly and creating a rich sauce in one pan.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping onions and garlic quickly, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Measuring cups: Helps in accurately measuring liquids like orange juice and sauces to maintain the perfect flavor balance.

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 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

To Serve

• Chopped scallions
• Sesame seeds
• Rice

How to Make Quick Apricot Chicken

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned. It doesn’t have to be fully cooked at this stage. Stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Pour the orange juice into the skillet with the chicken, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Reduce heat to medium. Add the apricot jam, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and honey. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Bring the mixture to a simmer. Then reduce heat further and gently simmer until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F) and the sauce thickens to your liking. Serve over rice with chopped scallions and sesame seeds sprinkled on top if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Quick Apricot Chicken!

How to Serve Quick Apricot Chicken

Quick Apricot Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes enhances its delightful flavors and makes for a well-rounded meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice absorbs the sauce perfectly, creating a comforting base that complements the sweet and tangy chicken.

Over Quinoa

• Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and boosts the protein content, making your meal more nutritious and filling.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Serve alongside lightly sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a colorful and healthy plate.

On a Bed of Greens

• Create a refreshing salad by placing the chicken on mixed greens. Drizzle with extra sauce for added flavor.

Garnished with Scallions

• Sprinkle chopped scallions on top for a burst of freshness and an appealing crunch.

How to Perfect Quick Apricot Chicken

To make your Quick Apricot Chicken even better, follow these simple tips for enhanced flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and onions. They elevate the dish’s overall taste.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey or apricot jam based on your sweetness preference.
• Monitor cooking time: Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
• Experiment with spices: Adding ginger or chili flakes can introduce an exciting new layer of flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving, which helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Apricot Chicken

Pairing Quick Apricot Chicken with complementary side dishes will enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A simple, healthy option that brings vibrant color and crunch to your plate.

2. Coconut Rice
   This fragrant rice dish adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the apricot flavors.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the tangy chicken sauce.

4. Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus adds an elegant touch while being quick to prepare in the oven.

5. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw balances the sweetness of the dish with its tangy dressing—perfect for texture.

6. Cauliflower Fried Rice
   A low-carb alternative that still delivers all the savory flavors of traditional fried rice without guilt.

7. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn offers natural sweetness that complements the dish wonderfully.

8. Sautéed Spinach
   Lightly sautéed spinach is rich in nutrients and adds vibrant green color alongside your chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Not browning the chicken properly: Browning adds flavor. Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken.
• Skipping the garlic and onion: These aromatics enhance flavor. Always include them in the cooking process for a richer taste.
• Not adjusting sauce thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. Don’t rush this step for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring serving suggestions: Serving with rice or vegetables enhances the meal. Consider adding sides that complement your dish.
• Overcooking the chicken: Check internal temperature; it should reach 160°F. Overcooked chicken can become dry and less enjoyable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Quick Apricot Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Quick Apricot Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20 minutes to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Quick Apricot Chicken.

How to make Quick Apricot Chicken?

To make Quick Apricot Chicken, brown diced chicken in oil, then add onions, garlic, and a blend of orange juice, apricot jam, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and honey. Simmer until cooked through.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! You can experiment with other fruit preserves like peach or mango for a different flavor profile while keeping it quick.

What can I serve with Quick Apricot Chicken?

Serve with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the sweetness of the dish.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Quick Apricot Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, totaling just 30 minutes!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Quick Apricot Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or using alternative proteins like turkey or beef. Try this recipe today and enjoy a quick yet flavorful meal that your family will love!