Name: Sticky Gooey Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken for Quick Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (Skin-on, bone-in for juiciness); 0.25 cup Soy Sauce (Low-sodium optional); 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (Yellow mustard can substitute); 1 cup Apricot Preserves (Peach or orange marmalade can be swapped); 1 tablespoon Dehydrated Onion (Fresh onion can be used, adjust moisture); 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste); 2 teaspoons Granulated Garlic (Fresh garlic can be used); 0.5 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper (Omit or increase for heat preference)

As the tantalizing scent of Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken wafted through my kitchen last week, I couldn’t help but smile at the memories of family dinners growing up. This easy weeknight meal not only brings everyone together but transforms an ordinary evening into a delightful gathering. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can create a dish that balances sweetness and savory goodness—perfect for when time is short but flavor is a must. Picture juicy chicken thighs smothered in a luscious apricot sauce, all baked to perfection with just a hint of spice. It’s a recipe that invites creativity too; feel free to swap apricot preserves for peach or orange marmalade if you’re feeling adventurous! Curious how this enchanting dish can become a staple in your home? Let’s dive in!

Why Make Sticky Apricot Chicken?

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet apricot preserves and savory soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Prep: This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, taking just minutes to prepare. Simply mix the sauce and coat your chicken—dinner is practically done!

Customizable Options: Whether you swap in orange marmalade or opt for boneless chicken thighs, the variations guarantee that you’ll never get bored.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests; its rich flavors and delightful texture are sure to impress.

Effortless Cleanup: With just one baking dish involved, you’ll spend less time washing up and more time enjoying your delicious meal.

Discover more delightful flavors with my Grilled Chicken Sandwich or whip up some easy Chicken Roasted Sweet for variety!

Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – Skin-on, bone-in pieces provide the best juiciness and flavor; trim excess skin for a tidier dish.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Adds depth and umami; consider low-sodium soy sauce for a saltier flavor control.
Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons) – Brings tanginess to the sauce; yellow mustard is a suitable substitute if necessary.
Apricot Preserves (1 cup) – Delivers a delightful sweetness and thick, sticky texture; peach or orange marmalade can be swapped for variation.
Dehydrated Onion (1 tablespoon) – Amplifies the overall flavor; fresh onion can work, but adjust moisture levels accordingly.
Kosher Salt (2 teaspoons) – Vital for seasoning; adjust to taste, especially when using standard soy sauce.
Granulated Garlic (2 teaspoons) – Infuses the dish with aromatic notes; fresh garlic can be used, but reduce the amount as needed.
Crushed Red Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a hint of spiciness; omit for a milder flavor or increase for a bit more heat.

Feel free to explore these ingredients and dive into the mouthwatering experience of Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken! Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness that make it a perfect addition to your weeknight repertoire.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken. This high heat is essential for achieving the delicious caramelization of the apricot sauce on the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil, making cleanup a breeze after you’ve savored your meal. This step helps to prevent the chicken from sticking and allows the sauce to flow freely during cooking.

Step 3: Mix the Apricot Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1 cup apricot preserves until blended smoothly. Add in 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 2 teaspoons granulated garlic, and ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper. This will create a luscious apricot sauce bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Take your skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs and thoroughly coat them with the apricot sauce mixture. Make sure every piece is generously covered for maximum flavor and tenderness. Set aside any remaining sauce to use later for basting during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken thighs skin-side down in the greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This initial baking phase allows the chicken to cook through while the skin begins to crisp up beautifully.

Step 6: Flip and Baste
After 20 minutes, carefully flip the chicken thighs over and spoon the reserved apricot sauce over the top of each piece. This step adds moisture and enhances the sticky glaze. Return the baking dish to the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is a delightful golden brown.

Step 7: Final Touches
Once the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred, remove it from the oven. The thighs should be tender and glazed beautifully with the apricot sauce. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving, so the flavors can settle, making the Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken even more delectable.

Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!

Marmalade Swap: Replace apricot preserves with peach or orange marmalade for a refreshing flavor change. Each option adds its unique sweetness and zing.
Boneless Chicken: Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts to shorten cooking time. Just be sure to monitor closely to keep the meat juicy and tender.
Spice it Up: Increase the crushed red pepper to 1 teaspoon for a spicier kick. The heat elevates the sweet and savory balance beautifully!
Fresh Aromatics: Substitute dehydrated onion with one small, finely chopped fresh onion. This will add a burst of fresh flavor; just be aware of additional moisture.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the apricot sauce. This simple addition will bring in a fragrant layer that complements the sweet chicken perfectly.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Serve with Veggies: Instead of grains, serve the chicken over a bed of steamed veggies for a lighter, low-carb option. Think colorful bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini!
Syrup Style: For a more syrupy texture, add an extra ¼ cup of apricot preserves to the sauce at the end. It creates a delightful, sticky coating that’s great for pouring over rice or other sides.

Explore various options while preparing your Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken and feel free to serve it alongside my delicious Grilled Chicken Sandwich for a flavor-packed meal!

How to Store and Freeze Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked apricot chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Ensure the dish is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, to preserve the chicken’s tenderness.

Sauce Separation: If storing separately, the apricot sauce may thicken in the fridge. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore its original glaze consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the chicken with the apricot sauce and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if you’d like to save even more time. When ready to cook, simply remove the chicken from the fridge, place it in the baking dish, and bake as directed. To maintain quality, cover the dish with foil during baking if you’re worried about drying out. Enjoy the convenience of a delicious dinner with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Sticky Apricot Chicken

Oil the Dish: Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. You’ll appreciate this when the delicious sticky apricot glaze is involved!

Balance the Salt: If using regular soy sauce, taste the sauce mixture before adding all the kosher salt to avoid over-salting the chicken.

Broil for Crispness: For a delectable charred finish, broil the chicken for a few minutes after baking. This step enhances texture and flavor.

Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the crushed red pepper. On the flip side, feel free to increase the heat for a spicier kick!

Flavor Enhancers: Consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce for a zesty twist that enhances the overall flavor profile of your Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken.

Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking. This short wait will help the juices redistribute, making the chicken even juicier and more flavorful!

What to Serve with Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this scrumptious dish with delightful sides that bring out its flavor.

Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains absorb the rich apricot glaze beautifully and provide a light, complementary flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds a satisfying crunch and vibrant color, enhancing nutrition and visual appeal.

Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while providing a perfect contrast to the sticky chicken. Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini are fantastic choices!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these mashed potatoes make a comforting base that balances the sweet and savory note of the dish.
Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing burst of flavor, creating a balance against the richness of the chicken.

The crunch of fresh greens adds brightness while cutting through the dish’s decadence.

Garlic Bread: Crunchy yet soft, this warm bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover apricot sauce.

Serve with a side of tangy marinara for a delightful twist!

Peach Iced Tea: A refreshing drink with fruity notes enhances the overall sweetness of the meal, complementing the apricot theme throughout.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich yet airy dessert. The creamy texture provides a wonderful contrast to the glee of flavors in the chicken.

These pairings will not only harmonize with your Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken but also create a memorable dining experience worth sharing with loved ones. Enjoy!

Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe apricot preserves?
Absolutely! Look for apricot preserves that have a bright color and no dark spots. The preserves should be thick yet spreadable, and the label should list apricots as the first ingredient. A natural fruit flavor is preferred over overly artificial ones.

How long can I store the leftover Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken?
You can store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing it to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Can I freeze the Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken?
Definitely! To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What is the best way to reheat the chicken?
The best method to reheat your chicken is by gently warming it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in a baking dish for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the chicken tender and prevents it from drying out.

Can I make the Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken if I have food allergies?
Very! For those with soy allergies, you can use coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Additionally, substitute Dijon mustard with a homemade version or omit it entirely for a mustard-free dish. Always double-check the ingredient labels to ensure they are allergy-friendly!