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!
