Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs

The moment I first tasted Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs, I knew I discovered a treasure. It was a lovely evening, my friends gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as delicious aromas wafted from the kitchen. The sweet yet tangy glaze enveloping the tender chicken thighs brought a unique harmony to the meal, and I couldn’t help but smile as I watched everyone enjoy their first bites. Cooking isn’t just about feeding people; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences, and this recipe certainly did just that.

Imagine coming home after a long day, and the first thing you want is to whip up something that’s not only easy but also satisfying. With Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs, you can have a scrumptious dinner on the table in no time. The best part? It’s all about simplicity. You toss some spices on the chicken, let it cook, and then it transforms into a dish bursting with flavor. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!

As I continue to make this dish, I find myself experimenting a bit each time. Sometimes I’ll add a dash of my favorite spice or serve it with a new side. What’s wonderful about Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it for an everyday family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of the joy of cooking and the magic of sharing a meal with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home too!

What to Buy for Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs

When preparing Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs, selecting quality ingredients is essential. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a dish that bursts with flavor. From the juicy chicken to the delectable glaze, every item on the list contributes to the final masterpiece. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

• 2 pounds (900g) boneless and skinless chicken thighs: The star of the dish, these thighs are juicy and flavorful, ensuring every bite is succulent.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of apricot.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a smoky undertone that balances the glaze beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and spice.
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil: Used for pan-frying the chicken to golden perfection.
• 1 cup (240ml) apricot preserves: The key ingredient that gives the dish its unique sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons grated ginger: Brings warmth and a zingy freshness to the glaze.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor and aroma.
• ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to balance the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely stickiness to the glaze.
• Sliced green onions: For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

How to Cook Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs

Cooking Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs is a delightful journey that I cherish each time. Each step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the steps that will take you to a plate of this tasty goodness.

1. Begin by taking 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and placing them in a bowl. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. This is where the magic begins, as the spices will penetrate the meat, infusing it with flavor.
2. Next, heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Watch as the oil starts to shimmer, signaling it’s ready for the chicken. Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. This allows the chicken to sear properly, creating that delicious crust.
3. Cook the chicken for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning them halfway through. Look for a golden brown color on both sides, and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
4. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. If you notice any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, don’t fret. Just add a little water to deglaze the pan and scrape up those flavorful bits with a wooden spoon.
5. If the skillet looks dry, add a bit more oil. Then, introduce 2 teaspoons of grated ginger and 2 cloves of minced garlic into the pan, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds a robust and aromatic foundation for your glaze.
6. Now it’s time to add in the star of the dish! Pour in 1 cup of apricot preserves, ¼ cup of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Using a whisk, stir everything together until the preserves melt seamlessly into the sauce. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist tasting!
7. Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet and coat them in the delicious sauce. Allow them to cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring they soak up all that flavor. This is the final touch that elevates your dish to something truly special.
8. Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs over a bed of cooked rice or your favorite grain, and don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for that fresh finish. The colors and aromas will make your meal look as good as it tastes!

Things Worth Knowing

Recipe Variations about Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs

When it comes to Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs, there’s plenty of room for creativity! Here are some variations that can elevate this dish even further.

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chili powder to your glaze.
• Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
• Different Fruits: Try substituting apricot preserves with peach or raspberry for a different flavor profile.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance the sweetness.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Meal Prep: Make a double batch on weekends for quick meals throughout the week.

Serving This Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs

When it’s time to serve Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs, think about the experience you want to create. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal further.

• Pairing with Grains: Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the delicious glaze.
• Fresh Salad: Consider a light salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• Special Occasions: This dish works beautifully for gatherings, family dinners, and celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries.
• Seasonal Veggies: Complement the meal with seasonal veggies like roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.
• Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners.
• Garnish Ideas: Add toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for an extra crunch on top before serving.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs recipe is truly a gem that combines ease of preparation with delightful flavors. It’s a dish that brings joy and satisfaction to the dining table, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t regret it. Let this dish become a new favorite in your home as you gather with loved ones and create lasting memories around the table.

Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs

The ultimate comfort food, Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs are sweet, savory, and incredibly easy to prepare. This dish combines juicy chicken with a tangy apricot glaze that will leave everyone craving more. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, you'll want to make this tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 17 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds chicken thighs boneless and skinless, or chicken cutlets
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil plus more if necessary
• 1 cup apricot preserves
• 2 teaspoons grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup sliced green onions for garnish

Equipment

• 12-inch stainless steel skillet

Method

 

1. 1. Begin by taking 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and placing them in a bowl. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. This is where the magic begins, as the spices will penetrate the meat, infusing it with flavor.
2. 2. Next, heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Watch as the oil starts to shimmer, signaling it’s ready for the chicken. Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. This allows the chicken to sear properly, creating that delicious crust.
3. 3. Cook the chicken for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning them halfway through. Look for a golden brown color on both sides, and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
4. 4. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. If you notice any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, don’t fret. Just add a little water to deglaze the pan and scrape up those flavorful bits with a wooden spoon.
5. 5. If the skillet looks dry, add a bit more oil. Then, introduce 2 teaspoons of grated ginger and 2 cloves of minced garlic into the pan, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds a robust and aromatic foundation for your glaze.
6. 6. Now it’s time to add in the star of the dish! Pour in 1 cup of apricot preserves, ¼ cup of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Using a whisk, stir everything together until the preserves melt seamlessly into the sauce. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist tasting!
7. 7. Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet and coat them in the delicious sauce. Allow them to cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring they soak up all that flavor. This is the final touch that elevates your dish to something truly special.
8. 8. Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs over a bed of cooked rice or your favorite grain, and don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for that fresh finish. The colors and aromas will make your meal look as good as it tastes!

Notes

• Cook in Batches: To get a good sear on the chicken thighs, avoid crowding them in the pan. You can cook half of the chicken, then cook the other half. It only takes a few extra minutes.
• Burnt Bits: Before deglazing, you may need to remove really burnt seasonings from the bottom of the skillet. A wet paper towel can help with this, or you can just wash the skillet before continuing with the sauce.
• Make It Spicy! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, chili powder, or some sriracha to the sauce if you want to give it a bit of a kick.
• Storing: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.