Apricot Chicken – Quick Delicious Meals

Let me take you on a journey of flavors and textures. Few dishes capture the essence of comfort and delight quite like apricot chicken. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it never fails to bring smiles to family gatherings and dinner parties alike. Imagine succulent chicken legs glazed in a sweet and tangy apricot sauce, infused with aromatic spices. If you have not tried it yet, you are in for a treat.

What is apricot chicken?

Simply put, apricot chicken is a dish that features chicken legs braised in a sauce made primarily from apricots. The dried fruit adds a unique sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory spices like cinnamon, turmeric, and cumin. It creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. I still remember the first time I made this dish. The rich aroma wafting through my kitchen left my family eager for dinner.

Why You'll Love This Apricot Chicken

There are many reasons to love apricot chicken. For one, it strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory. Not to mention, it comes together quickly and requires minimal culinary skill. It’s a one-pan wonder that cooks beautifully in the oven, leaving you with less cleanup. And did I mention how impressive it looks when plated? The vibrant color of the apricots makes it a feast for the eyes.

The Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for success. Here’s what you will need for apricot chicken:

• 4 whole chicken legs, bone-in and skin-on
  
• Kosher salt, to taste
  
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  
• 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely chopped
  
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, grated
  
• 1 small red chili, finely sliced
  
• 1 cup dried apricots, chopped (keep half for garnish)
  
• A pinch of saffron threads, ground (or 1/8 teaspoon powdered saffron)
  
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander seeds
  
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
• Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus extra if needed
  
• 1 tablespoon wildflower honey
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  
• Freshly chopped mint and flat-leaf parsley, for garnish
  

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just satisfying but bursting with character.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken legs with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. Let them sit in the seasoning while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Next, stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red chili. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Incorporate the saffron, ground turmeric, coriander, cumin, and cinnamon into the skillet. Stir well to coat the aromatics. The colors and aromas will evoke a sense of warmth. Let the spices cook for about 1 minute to unlock their flavors.

Step 4: Add the Apricots

Now it's time for the star ingredient: the apricots. Add the chopped dried apricots to the skillet. Stir them in, allowing them to mingle with the spices and aromatics for about 2 minutes. This will soften them slightly, enhancing their sweetness.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the juice of half a lemon and add the wildflower honey for sweetness. If you prefer a bit more acidity, feel free to add more lemon juice. Mix everything together thoroughly.

Step 6: Brown the Chicken

Push the apricot mixture to the sides of the skillet and place the chicken legs in the center. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown. This step locks in the natural juices of the chicken.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

If you’re using a stovetop-safe skillet, transfer it directly to the oven. Otherwise, move the chicken and sauce to a preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once done, take the skillet out of the oven. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped mint and parsley, along with the remaining apricots for a burst of color. Serve this beautiful apricot chicken warm, and revel in the delight of your cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• Use fresh herbs: Ingredients like mint and parsley enhance flavors and freshness.
  
• Adjust sweetness: If you like your dish sweeter, add more honey or serve with a dollop of apricot jam on the side.
  
• Experiment with spices: If you want more heat, try using a spicier chili or add a pinch of cayenne.
  
• Serve immediately: For the best taste, serve the chicken fresh from the oven.
  
• Pair smartly: Serve with fluffy rice or couscous, which can soak up the delicious sauce.
  

Nutrition Information

Knowing what goes into your food can be comforting. This apricot chicken recipe typically serves four and contains approximately:

• Calories: 470
  
• Protein: 30g
  
• Total Fat: 28g
  
• Saturated Fat: 8g
  
• Carbohydrates: 21g
  
• Fiber: 2g
  
• Sugars: 10g
  
• Sodium: 540mg
  

These values can vary based on ingredient modifications and serving sizes.

Can I Store Apricot Chicken?

Absolutely! Apricot chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify as it sits, giving you delicious leftovers. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What Can I Serve With Apricot Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here’s a quick rundown of delightful accompaniments:

• Fluffy Couscous: The light grains soak up the sauce beautifully.
  
• Cilantro Lime Rice: The zest of lime cuts through the sweetness.
  
• Roasted Vegetables: They add a crispy texture to the meal.
  
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad balances the sweet flavors.
  
• Crusty Bread: Great for mopping up the sauce.
  

Variations

Variety keeps meals exciting. Here are some variations to consider for apricot chicken:

• Orange Apricot Chicken: Swap out lemon juice for fresh orange juice. It gives a sweeter, citrus twist.
  
• Apricot Chicken with Almonds: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before serving for added crunch.
  
• Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken: Toss everything into a slow cooker and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours.
  
• Spicy Apricot Chicken: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
  
• Apricot Ginger Chicken: Increase the amount of grated ginger for a more pronounced zing.
  

Each variation creates a new take on the classic dish, and you can explore what suits your palate best.

Conclusion

Apricot chicken is a delightful dish that transforms simple chicken legs into a culinary masterpiece. With its sweet and savory notes, it's bound to impress guests and family alike. The ease of preparation and the ability to make it ahead of time makes this recipe a favorite in my kitchen. So next time you're looking to spice up dinner, give this apricot chicken a shot. I promise your taste buds will thank you!

You’ll also like the following recipes!​

• Grilled Chicken Parmesan
• Dessert Quesadillas
• Christmas Margarita Mistletoe