As the seasons change and summer gives way to fall, there’s no better way to warm up than with a delicious and satisfying meal. And what better way to do that than with apricot chicken? This classic combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to become a new favorite in your household. From classic glazed dishes to international-inspired twists and quick weeknight meals, we’ve got you covered with these 18 mouthwatering apricot chicken recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting casserole or a flavorful stir-fry, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to help you get started. So go ahead, get cooking, and let the sweet and tangy flavors of apricot chicken become your new go-to dish.
Classic Apricot Glazed Chicken
Sweet and tangy apricots meet savory chicken in this timeless recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup apricot jam
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot jam, orange marmalade, honey, apple cider vinegar, and thyme until smooth.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Chicken Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory stir-fry recipe that combines the flavors of apricots, chicken, and spices for a delicious and quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
2. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil or butter in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped apricots, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and pour in the soy sauce mixture. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Apricot Baked Chicken
Sweet and savory, this Honey Apricot Baked Chicken recipe is a delicious twist on traditional baked chicken. The honey and apricots add a sticky and tangy glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey and chopped apricots.
3. Place chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-apricot mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Chicken Skewers with Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional kebabs, these apricot chicken skewers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apricots
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, garlic, paprika, and cumin. Add chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Thread chicken, vegetables, and apricots onto skewers.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
This sweet and savory dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal option for a busy day when you need a comforting meal. With minimal preparation time and no fuss in the kitchen, this slow cooker recipe is a winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can apricots in syrup (14 oz)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together apricots, honey, Dijon mustard, and cumin.
3. Spoon the mixture over the chicken.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Apricot Chicken Wings
Elevate your wing game with this sweet and spicy fusion recipe that combines the tanginess of apricots with the boldness of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup apricot jam
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together apricot jam, honey, soy sauce, ginger, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and apricot slices (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Chicken Salad with Almonds
A sweet and savory combination of juicy chicken, crunchy almonds, and tangy apricots, this salad is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, apricots, and almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Apricot Chicken Breast
A sweet and savory twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe combines the tender flavor of apricots with juicy chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup apricot preserves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot preserves and honey until smooth.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Apricot Chicken Curry
A sweet and savory Indian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of apricots, chicken, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add apricots, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2 minutes.
6. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Apricot Chicken and Rice Casserole
A sweet and savory casserole that combines the flavors of apricots, chicken, and rice for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken and onion until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Stir in the chopped apricots, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
5. Combine the cooked rice with the chicken mixture and transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Apricot Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring tender chicken, juicy apricots, and a zesty lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apricots
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add apricots, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning chicken mixture onto tortillas.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt, to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including prep time)
Apricot Chicken Pasta with Spinach
Elevate your pasta game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines juicy chicken, tender apricots, and a burst of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fresh or dried apricots, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, apricots, garlic, and thyme in olive oil until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer 5 minutes or until sauce thickens.
4. Stir in spinach leaves until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Chicken Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender chicken with sweet apricots and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cooked rice, parsley, cilantro, apricots, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apricot Chicken Pizza with Goat Cheese
Apricot Chicken Pizza with Goat Cheese Recipe
Discover the sweet and savory combination of apricots, chicken, and goat cheese on a crispy pizza crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup caramelized apricots (see note)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange the caramelized apricots and diced chicken breast on top of the goat cheese.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Note: Caramelize apricots by cooking them in a pan with 1 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp water over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and sweet.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apricot Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with these sweet and savory apricot chicken meatballs, perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup apricot jam
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, apricot jam, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Optional: sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, until melted.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Apricot Chicken Quinoa Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with the sweetness of apricots, the tenderness of chicken, and the nutty goodness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed apricots (fresh or dried)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in mixed apricots, honey, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and divide into bowls. Top with chicken and apricot mixture.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apricot Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A sweet and savory twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the flavors of apricots, chicken, and lettuce for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the apricots and honey until well combined.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a surface. Top with a spoonful of the chicken mixture, followed by a spoonful of the apricot mixture.
4. Fold the lettuce in half to enclose the filling. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes ( preparation and assembly)
Apricot Chicken Soup with Ginger
Warm up on a chilly day with this flavorful and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of apricots, the spiciness of ginger, and the richness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves fresh ginger, grated
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, add the apricots, cumin, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people
Summary
Discover the sweet and savory flavors of apricot chicken with these 18 mouthwatering recipes. From classic glazed chicken to spicy wings and quinoa bowls, there’s something for every occasion. Try your hand at stir-fries, casseroles, and salads featuring juicy chicken and tender apricots. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to impress. Get inspired with these delicious ideas and elevate your cooking game!
