Ready in less than 30 minutes, these juicy boneless chicken thighs are coated in a sweet and savory sticky sauce made with apricot preserves, soy sauce, honey, and aromatic ginger and garlic. If you’re a frequent visitor here, you should know that I love creating new chicken dinner recipes that are quick and easy for you to prepare. This recipe for Apricot Chicken is another exciting, flavorful way to turn everyone’s favorite protein into a delicious Asian-inspired dinner that the whole family will absolutely love. Serve this glazed skillet chicken dinner with rice and steamed veggies – and don’t expect any leftovers. Kids and adults alike love this recipe, and will all come back for seconds! Some version of this vintage and traditional recipe has been around for probably 50 years or so! The original recipe calls for a package of dry onion soup mix, but I much prefer my spin on it that uses the perfect DIY blend of seasonings and flavorings. If you enjoy this flavor-packed sweet chicken, you should also try my Cranberry Chicken Thighs, Asian Chicken Meatballs, and the classic sweet and spicy General Tso’s Chicken.
Apricot Chicken Recipe Highlights
Simple Preparation – You will only need about 5 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time to make this entire recipe! This makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Big Flavors – The ingredients in this apricot chicken sauce are all about contrast and balance. Sweet apricot jam, warm savory spices, and salty, umami soy sauce come together in the best way here. Versatile Recipe – Try this apricot glaze with chicken breast cutlets, chicken tenderloins, or even salmon or shrimp! I haven’t tried it yet, but I think it would be amazing with seared tofu as well.
Key Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this sweet and savory stovetop chicken recipe: Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless chicken thighs are easy to find at the store and an inexpensive protein option. Apricot Preserves: Pick up any jar of apricot jam or preserves to add a light fruity sweetness to the recipe. Garlic, Ginger, and Soy Sauce: Fresh garlic and ginger, paired with soy sauce give this recipe tons of flavor. Be sure to use fresh ginger root for best results. Honey: Honey adds a little bit of extra sweetness, but also a warm flavor note that goes really well with garlic and ginger. Seasonings: Season the chicken with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
How To Make This Easy Apricot Glazed Chicken
Recipe Tips
Cook the chicken in batches. To get a good sear on the chicken thighs, avoid crowding them in the pan. You can cook half of the chicken and then cook the other half. It only takes a few extra minutes. Burnt bits in the pan? Before deglazing, you may need to remove really burnt seasonings from the bottom of the skillet. A wet paper towel can help with this, or you can just wash the skillet before continuing with the sauce. Make it spicy! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, chili powder, or some sriracha to the sauce if you want to give it a bit of a kick.
Storing Tips
Any leftover glazed apricot chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove over low or medium heat. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a tablespoon or less of water to loosen it up again.
Serving Ideas
This chicken goes really well with cooked jasmine rice to soak up all of the yummy sauce. Try it with cauliflower rice for a lower carb option. Add some broccoli or green beans to the plate and you will have a balanced and satisfying meal! For more Asian-inspired dinner inspiration, try serving Apricot Chicken with homemade Fried Rice, Cream Cheese Rangoons, or Chinese Scallion Pancakes.
Can I make Apricot Chicken with chicken breast?
Of course! I like the flavor and texture of thighs with this recipe, but boneless skinless chicken breast will work the same way. I suggest slicing the chicken into cutlets so that it will cook more quickly in the skillet.
What Can I use in place of Apricot Preserves?
Any other type of fruit preserves can be used. The flavor of the dish will change, but still be delicious! Try this recipe with blackberry jam or blueberry jam next. Peach or plum preserves would also be lovely.
What is apricot glaze made of?
There are a number of ways to make an apricot glaze, but here we’re making it with apricot jam, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
Can Apricot Chicken Be Baked?
I tested this recipe in the oven but much preferred how easy it was to make on the stovetop. Try it! Making it this way is much faster than baking it because the chicken is perfectly cooked in minutes. Keep a jar of apricot jam in your pantry so that you’re always ready to make this amazing Apricot Glazed Chicken recipe! Everyone enjoys this meal, so be sure to Pin it and share it with your friends! © Little Sunny Kitchen
