As I pulled the tender chicken from the oven, the air filled with a delightful aroma that whisked me back to cherished family dinners. This Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken is a vibrant blend of rich apricot preserves and savory seasonings that not only makes your taste buds dance but also checks the box for a simple weeknight meal. In just over an hour, you can create a dish that promises to be a showstopper at any dinner table. With its ease of preparation and the ability to cater to gluten-friendly preferences, this recipe is designed to become a staple in your kitchen. Curious about how to elevate your weeknight dinners with a sweet twist? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe! Why is Apricot Chicken a Game Changer? Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Gooey, Sweet Flavor: The combination of apricot preserves and savory spices creates a mouthwatering glaze that is both sweet and tangy. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap the apricot preserves with peach or orange marmalade for a unique twist! Time-Saving Delight: In just over an hour, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to impress the whole family. It fits perfectly into your regular meal rotation. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This sticky chicken will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, making it a fantastic addition to any gathering or special occasion. Elevate your mealtime with this delicious Sweet Chili Chicken or pair it with a side of Smothered Chicken Rice for an unforgettable experience! Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Thighs – This cut provides tenderness and juiciness, making it perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors. For the Sauce • Soy Sauce – Adds a savory umami kick; opt for low sodium to keep it heart-healthy. • Dijon Mustard – Introduces a zesty tang that complements the sweetness of the apricot. • Apricot Preserves – The star of the show, this sweetener creates that signature sticky glaze—feel free to swap for peach or orange marmalade for a twist! • Dehydrated Onion – Enhances the depth of flavor; fresh onion can be used for a more vibrant taste. • Kosher Salt – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust if using regular soy sauce to avoid over-salting. • Granulated Garlic – Infuses a delightful aroma; fresh garlic is a great alternative if you have it on hand. • Crushed Red Pepper – Adds a pinch of heat; adapt the amount to your taste preferences or leave it out for a milder dish. This Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken is just a few ingredients away from making your dinner both easy and memorable! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will ensure a beautiful caramelization on the chicken as it bakes. While your oven heats up, prepare your 9×13 baking dish by lightly greasing it with a splash of oil, which will help prevent the chicken from sticking. Step 2: Make the Sauce In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of soy sauce, ¼ cup of Dijon mustard, and 1 cup of apricot preserves. Add in 1 tablespoon of dehydrated onion, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of granulated garlic, and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until you create a smooth and glossy sauce that’s both sweet and savory, the key to your Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken. Step 3: Coat the Chicken Take your chicken thighs and coat them generously with the prepared sauce. Arrange them skin side down in the greased baking dish, ensuring they are well-spaced for even cooking. Reserve any leftover sauce in the bowl, as it will come in handy later. This will create that delightful sticky glaze that everyone will love when it’s time to serve. Step 4: First Bake Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20 minutes. At this point, the chicken should start to cook through and your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering aroma. Keep an eye on it—you want the chicken to begin browning without burning. Step 5: Flip and Add Sauce After 20 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Using tongs, flip the chicken thighs over so that the skin side is now facing up. Spoon the reserved sauce generously over the top of each piece of chicken, allowing that sticky goodness to infuse as it cooks further. Step 6: Final Bake Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. You’ll know your Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken is ready when the skin is dark and slightly charred, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should look glossy and caramelized—absolutely irresistible! Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Variations Get ready to explore delightful twists on this family favorite that will tantalize your taste buds! Peach Preserve Twist: Swap apricot preserves for peach preserves for a sweet, summery flavor that’s simply irresistible. The juicy sweetness of peaches adds a refreshing note that enhances the dish’s overall profile. Boneless Options: Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts to cut down on cooking time; reduce baking by about 15 minutes. This not only saves time, but the result is just as tender, allowing for a quick weeknight fix! Crockpot Version: Slow cook the chicken for 3-4 hours for a different texture, then broil briefly to caramelize. The low-and-slow method deepens the flavor, making every bite wonderfully succulent. Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu, pressing and marinating it in the apricot sauce for a cozy meat-free option. When baked, the tofu soaks up the glaze beautifully, providing a hearty, satisfying meal. Add Some Heat: Toss in a few jalapeño slices to the sauce for an extra kick of heat that spices things up! Adjust the level of spice to your liking – this variation can transform the dish into a fiery fiesta! Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic twist. The earthy notes will elevate the sweetness of the apricot, creating an exquisite flavor harmony. Spicy Asian Fusion: Add a splash of sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for an Asian-inspired flair. This gives an exciting crunch and savory depth, making the dish even more dynamic. Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh orange or lime juice into the sauce for zesty brightness to balance the sweetness. The citrus elevates the flavor profile, ensuring each bite is a refreshing surprise. Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your family’s preferences! For a delicious side, try pairing your dish with some Mango Chicken Stir or a hearty helping of Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas. The possibilities are endless! Expert Tips for Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Ingredient Prep: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This will help the flavors meld better when making the sauce. Marinate for Flavor: For a deeper flavor profile, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight prior to baking. Oven Temperature Check: Keep an eye on your oven’s temperature; all ovens vary slightly, and a too-hot oven can result in burnt edges. Even Cooking: Space the chicken thighs evenly in the baking dish to guarantee even cooking. Overcrowding will lead to uneven results! Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for ultimate safety and juiciness. Leftover Storage: Store any leftover Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for easy reheating throughout the week. How to Store and Freeze Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing to maintain its texture and prevent moisture buildup. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked apricot chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to label your container with the date to keep track. Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring that the sticky glaze remains intact. Tip: For the best flavor, consider reheating with a little extra apricot preserves brushed on top to enhance the gooey goodness of your Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken. What to Serve With Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Picture a comforting dinner spread that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, elevating your weeknight meals to delicious new heights. Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice soaks up the apricot sauce, offering a soft, pillowy contrast to the sticky chicken. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the chicken’s flavors. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a fresh crunch, making for a balanced meal without overwhelming flavors. Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly crispy, roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon complements the sweet elements perfectly, enhancing the overall profile. Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad with a tangy dressing elevates freshness, providing a textural contrast to the sticky chicken and rich sides. Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of iced tea, preferably infused with peach or apricot flavors to enhance the meal. Chocolate Mousse: Conclude your meal on a sweet note with a light, airy chocolate mousse. It’s a luscious treat that balances the savory richness of the chicken. With these delightful pairings, your dinner table will become a cherished gathering spot, filled with delicious flavors and happy memories. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken in advance is a time-saver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the glaze up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Store the coated chicken tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. Additionally, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply coat the chicken with the sauce, bake as directed, and enjoy a delicious meal that feels fresh and restaurant-quality with minimal effort! Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe chicken thighs? Absolutely! For chicken thighs, look for pieces that are plump and have a firm texture. The meat should have a nice pink color and no dark spots. Skin should be clean and fresh, indicating good quality, and avoid thighs with any unpleasant odor. What’s the best way to store leftover apricot chicken? Very simple! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing to help maintain its tenderness and avoid excess moisture from forming in the container. Can I freeze Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken? Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked apricot chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible and label with the date. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly? The more the merrier! If your chicken is cooking unevenly, first ensure that you are not overcrowding the baking dish. Each piece should have enough space to allow heat to circulate. If you notice specific parts cooking faster, rotate the dish halfway through cooking and consider adjusting the position of the thighs. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten allergies or preferences, you can easily make this Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken gluten-friendly by using gluten-free soy sauce. Always check ingredient labels to ensure everything is safe for your dietary needs, especially with the soy sauce and any other seasoning you might use. Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Bliss This Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken is a delightful blend of rich apricot preserves and savory seasonings, perfect for a weeknight meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pounds Chicken Thighs Skin on, bone-in for best flavor.For the Sauce1/2 cup Soy Sauce Low sodium recommended.1/4 cup Dijon Mustard1 cup Apricot Preserves Can substitute with peach or orange marmalade.1 tablespoon Dehydrated Onion Fresh onion can be used for more flavor.1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust if using regular soy sauce.1 teaspoon Granulated Garlic Fresh garlic can be substituted.1 pinch Crushed Red Pepper Adjust based on heat preference. Equipment Oven9x13 baking dishmixing bowlTongs Method Cooking InstructionsPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9x13 baking dish with oil.In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apricot preserves, dehydrated onion, kosher salt, granulated garlic, and crushed red pepper. Stir until smooth.Coat the chicken thighs generously with the sauce and arrange them skin side down in the baking dish. Reserve any leftover sauce.Bake the chicken for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.Flip the chicken thighs so that skin side is up and spoon reserved sauce over each piece.Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until glossy and caramelized. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 28gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 115mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesFor deeper flavors, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce before baking. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
