Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! Apricots and chicken are a match made in heaven, and we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to prove it. From slow cooker meals to grilling, baking, and more, these apricot chicken recipes will become staples in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, we’ve got you covered.
Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with Thyme
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this easy-to-make Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with Thyme recipe, perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) apricots in syrup, drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the slow cooker, combine the chopped apricots, chicken broth, and cooked chicken.
4. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Honey Glazed Apricot Chicken Skewers
These flavorful skewers are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet apricots, and sticky honey glaze is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apricot preserves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apricot preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over the chicken, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Apricot Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs
A flavorful twist on traditional baked chicken, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the tanginess of mustard for a deliciously savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup apricot jam
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot jam and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the apricot-mustard mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Apricot Chicken Stir-Fry
Spicy Apricot Chicken Stir-Fry: A sweet and spicy twist on a classic stir-fry recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium apricots, diced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
2. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Add apricots, red pepper flakes, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the apricots are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Apricot Chicken Pasta
A sweet and savory fusion of flavors, this Creamy Apricot Chicken Pasta is a perfect combination for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or linguine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apricot preserves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in apricot preserves and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Apricot BBQ Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and smoky apricot BBQ chicken recipe. The combination of tender chicken, tangy apricots, and a hint of spices will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup apricot preserves
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together apricot preserves, BBQ sauce, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Apricot and Ginger Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory stuffed chicken breast recipe, featuring the perfect blend of apricots, ginger, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped apricots, grated ginger, olive oil, honey, and lemon zest.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the apricot-ginger mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
One-Pan Apricot Chicken with Vegetables
This flavorful one-pan dish combines succulent chicken with sweet apricots and tender vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup apricots, pitted and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add apricots, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Transfer skillet to oven; bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Balsamic Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of apricots with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, all wrapped up in a crispy chicken package. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, and honey.
2. Add the chopped apricots and toss to combine.
3. Add the diced chicken and toss until coated with the apricot-balsamic mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place mixed greens on a plate or in a bowl, then top with the chicken-apricot mixture.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including cooking time for chicken)
Apricot Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
Apricot Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the sweetness of apricots with the creaminess of coconut milk, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, and spices; cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in apricots, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Apricot Glazed Chicken Wings
This recipe combines the tender goodness of chicken wings with a sweet and sticky apricot glaze, perfect for game day gatherings or everyday snacking. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these flavorful treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup apricot jam
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 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, brown sugar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add chicken wings and toss until fully coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the sweetness of apricots with the savory flavor of chicken and wild rice, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 cup apricot preserves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, apricot preserves, chopped parsley, browned chicken, and sautéed onion mixture. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Pecan Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the warmth of apricots and the crunch of pecans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together pecans, apricots, honey, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apricot Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema
This sweet and savory recipe combines the flavors of apricots, chicken, and lime crema to create a unique and delicious taco experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup apricot preserves
– 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 tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with the apricot mixture.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled chicken into small pieces and placing onto tortillas.
7. Top with lime crema and desired toppings.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt, to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Apricot Rosemary Roasted Chicken
This flavorful roasted chicken dish combines the sweetness of apricots with the earthiness of rosemary, resulting in a moist and aromatic bird perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped apricots, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apricot Chicken Meatballs in Sweet Chili Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and savory apricot chicken meatballs, smothered in a tangy sweet chili sauce. Perfect for parties or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup apricot jam
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, cheese, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the sweet chili sauce in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss with apricot jam and warm sweet chili sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Apricot Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the sweetness of apricots with the savory taste of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apricots
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, lemon juice, and thyme.
3. Add chicken strips to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare lettuce leaves and apricots.
7. Assemble wraps by placing a few pieces of chicken on each lettuce leaf, followed by a spoonful of apricots and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apricot and Almond Stuffed Chicken Rolls
Elevate your dinner game with these flavorful and visually appealing chicken rolls, packed with the sweetness of apricots and crunch of almonds. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped apricots, sliced almonds, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Place a spoonful of the apricot-almond mixture onto the center of each chicken breast, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Roll up the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the rolls and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Chicken Pizza with Goat Cheese
Elevate your pizza game with this sweet and savory combination of flavors. A crispy crust topped with juicy chicken, caramelized apricots, and creamy goat cheese is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup caramelized apricots (see note)
– 8 oz pizza dough
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread cooked chicken, caramelized apricots, goat cheese crumbles, and mozzarella cheese evenly over the crust.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve hot.
Note: To caramelize apricots, heat 2 tbsp of honey and 1 tbsp of water over medium heat. Add 1 cup of dried apricots and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden brown.
Apricot Chicken Soup with Fresh Herbs
This sweet and savory soup combines the comfort of chicken with the brightness of fresh herbs and the warmth of apricots. Perfect for a chilly evening or a light lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, basil, or dill, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breast and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and cumin to the pot, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped apricots, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken breast to the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of apricots paired with chicken! This collection of 20 delicious apricot chicken recipes offers something for every occasion. From slow cooker meals to grilled skewers, baked thighs, and stir-fries, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for special occasions, these recipes feature a range of flavors and cooking methods. With apricot chicken pizzas, salads, casserole, and more, there’s something for everyone in this comprehensive list.
