Name: Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds (900 g) boneless and skinless chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil; 1 cup (240 ml) apricot preserves; 2 teaspoons grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; Sliced green onions for garnish

If you’re looking for a delightful and easy dish that will impress your family or guests, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! These Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs are not only bursting with flavor but also feature a beautiful glaze that caramelizes perfectly while roasting.

The combination of sweet apricot and savory chicken creates a captivating savory dish that you can whip up on busy weeknights or for special occasions.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can make it step-by-step.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s just something about glazed chicken that brings joy to a dinner table.

The apricot preserves blend wonderfully with the ginger and soy sauce, creating a balance of sweetness and savory goodness that will leave you wanting more.

Plus, chicken thighs are tender and juicy, making them the perfect candidate for this tasty glaze.

It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough that you could serve it to company.

Ingredients

2 pounds (900 g) boneless and skinless chicken thighs or chicken cutlets
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil plus more if necessary
1 cup (240 ml) apricot preserves
2 teaspoons grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup (60 ml) soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
Sliced green onions for garnish

How To Make Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.

This helps them sear nicely when cooking.

Once dried, season them with garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil.

Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken thighs to the pan in a single layer.

Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.

You may need to work in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough.

Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.

Add in the grated ginger and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

Then, pour in the apricot preserves, soy sauce, and honey.

Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

The glaze should thicken slightly, making it more syrupy.

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken

Return the seared chicken back to the skillet, coating each piece generously with the glaze.

Ensure they are well-covered because this is where all the flavor begins to develop! Cook for another 5-10 minutes, occasionally flipping the chicken in the glaze until it’s cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, transfer the chicken thighs to a serving platter.

Drizzle some extra glaze from the pan over the top and finish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve this dish with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a great sear.
Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze if you like a touch of heat.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking will keep it juicy.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Variations and Customizations

Try using peach or apricot jam if you can’t find apricot preserves.
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Add in chopped bell peppers or onions while making the glaze for added veggies.
For a festive touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftovers, place the chicken thighs and glaze in an airtight container.

They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated throughout.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Cooking frozen chicken directly may prevent even cooking.

Can I make the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Just give it a good stir before using.

What can I serve with Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

You can also serve it over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying it?

Yes! You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

Just make sure to brush the glaze on the chicken halfway through for maximum flavor.

Conclusion

These Glazed Apricot Chicken Thighs are a simple yet delicious dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this recipe makes cooking a breeze, all while delivering an unforgettable flavor punch.

Perfect for any day of the week, this dish will surely impress anyone lucky enough to join you for dinner.

Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory with each succulent bite! Feel free to make it your own and expand on the flavors as you discover what you love most.

Happy cooking!