Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken

There’s something truly special about a dish that combines sweetness and savoriness, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was one of those busy weeknights when I wanted something delicious yet quick to prepare. I had some chicken in the fridge and a jar of apricot preserves that needed to be used. The magic began when I decided to combine them, and let me tell you, it turned out to be a family favorite! The kids were thrilled, and I was left wondering why I hadn’t prepared this sooner.

This dish is perfect for those evenings when you don’t have a lot of time but still want to indulge in something flavorful. The sticky glaze coats the tender chicken beautifully, and serving it over a bed of fluffy brown rice enhances the flavors beautifully. Not to mention, it’s a one-skillet wonder, which means less time cleaning up afterward. Can it get any better than that?

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken can be easily adapted. You can throw in some extra veggies, or even switch things up with different sauces if you’re feeling adventurous. I often find myself making this dish when I have a busy day ahead; the leftovers make for a fantastic next-day lunch! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation.

So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this incredible dish that brings joy and satisfaction to the dinner table!

What Goes Into Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken

The ingredients in Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and nourishing. Each component plays a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness. Let’s take a closer look at the key players in this delightful recipe.

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed: The star of the dish, providing a wonderful protein base that soaks up all the flavorful sauce.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned.
• 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the apricot preserves.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a rich, savory depth.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Used to coat the chicken, giving it a nice crisp texture as it cooks.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Provides fat for pan-searing the chicken, helping to develop flavor.
• 1/2 cup apricot preserves: The star ingredient that imparts a delightful sweetness and sticky glaze.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic brightness that elevates the dish.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce: Adds a savory umami note that balances the sweetness of the apricot.
• 2 tbsp brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness while helping to create that sticky glaze.
• 1 cup brown rice: A hearty grain that serves as a perfect base for the dish.
• 2 green onions, sliced: Added as a fresh garnish to brighten the dish.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: A healthy and vibrant side that complements the chicken.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for final seasoning to ensure every element is flavorful.

Recipe Steps for Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken

Making Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken is not only enjoyable, but it also brings the delightful aroma of cooking into your kitchen. Let’s take it step by step to ensure you capture all the flavors and create a dish your family will rave about. Here we go!

1. Prepare your brown rice according to package instructions. This will serve as the base for your dish, soaking up all the delicious sauce later.
2. As the rice cooks, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This will be important for roasting the broccoli to a tender perfection.
3. Toss the broccoli florets in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re vibrant and slightly crispy.
4. In a separate bowl or a zip lock bag, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
5. Add the cubed chicken into the bag with the flour mixture. Seal it tightly and shake vigorously until each piece is well coated. This will create a nice texture when cooked.
6. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown and are cooked through.
7. While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the apricot preserves, minced garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl. This mixture will become the glaze that coats your chicken.
8. Once the chicken is browned, pour the glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Allow it to simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and adheres beautifully to the chicken.
9. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
10. To serve, ladle the chicken over the prepared brown rice and add a side of roasted broccoli. Enjoy every sticky and savory bite!

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints to ensure your Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken turns out perfectly every time. These tips can enhance your cooking experience and make it easier to enjoy this delicious recipe!

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to round out your meal.
• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of sesame oil to the glaze for an added layer of flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based meal.

What Goes Well With This Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken

When it comes to serving Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken, the options are as delicious as the dish itself. Here’s how to elevate your meal experience:

• Serve over brown rice: The nutty flavor of brown rice pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze, soaking up all the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Accompany with a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vibrant plate.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish is an excellent choice for meal prepping. Portion it out for the week with rice and veggies.
• Family Dinners: It’s a fantastic option for family dinners, offering enough to serve everyone comfortably.
• Light Lunch: Leftovers can be enjoyed as a light lunch the next day, served cold or reheated.
• Seasonal Sides: Pair with seasonal sides like a fresh garden salad or roasted root vegetables during the cooler months.

FAQ

Conclusion

Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken is truly a delightful dish that brings together sweetness and savory goodness in an easy-to-make format. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the deliciousness and the smiles it brings to your family around the dinner table!

Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken

The ultimate comfort food awaits with Speedy Sticky Apricot Chicken. Featuring tender chicken coated in a sweet and sticky glaze, this easy weeknight dinner is perfect for the whole family. You'll love how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup apricot preserves
• 1 clove garlic
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 green onions sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Prepare your brown rice according to package instructions. This will serve as the base for your dish, soaking up all the delicious sauce later.
2. As the rice cooks, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This will be important for roasting the broccoli to a tender perfection.
3. Toss the broccoli florets in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re vibrant and slightly crispy.
4. In a separate bowl or a zip lock bag, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
5. Add the cubed chicken into the bag with the flour mixture. Seal it tightly and shake vigorously until each piece is well coated. This will create a nice texture when cooked.
6. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown and are cooked through.
7. While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the apricot preserves, minced garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl. This mixture will become the glaze that coats your chicken.
8. Once the chicken is browned, pour the glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Allow it to simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and adheres beautifully to the chicken.
9. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
10. To serve, ladle the chicken over the prepared brown rice and add a side of roasted broccoli. Enjoy every sticky and savory bite!

Notes

Leftovers can be enjoyed as a light lunch the next day, served cold or reheated. You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.