This apricot chicken is a fun mix of sweet and savory flavors that make it super tasty! The sticky sauce hugs the chicken, making every bite deliciously juicy.
Who needs takeout when you can whip up this crowd-pleaser at home? I love pairing it with rice, so I can soak up all that yummy sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give a rich flavor and juicy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay more moist.
Apricot Jam: This is the star of the dish! For a different taste, swap it out for peach or raspberry jam. If you’re avoiding sugar, try using a sugar-free jam or a natural fruit spread.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds saltiness and umami. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos for a similar flavor without the gluten. Low-sodium soy sauce can also help reduce salt intake.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a tangy flavor. Whole-grain mustard is a nice alternative for added texture, or you can even use a mild yellow mustard if that’s what you have on hand.
Honey: It enhances sweetness. Maple syrup or agave syrup makes a great substitute for a vegan option. Just keep in mind, these can vary in sweetness levels!
How Do I Get Crispy Skin on My Chicken Thighs?
Achieving that lovely crispy skin is key to this dish! Start by drying the chicken thighs with paper towels. This step removes moisture for an extra crispy finish.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding the chicken, skin-side down.
- Sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown—this also adds flavor.
- Once seared, transfer to the baking sheet and brush with marinade before baking.
And if you want to kick the crispiness up a notch, finish with a quick broil! Just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Sticky, Gooey, Sweet & Savory Apricot Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup apricot jam
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes to get this dish ready to serve. Perfect for a delightful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup much easier! It’s an essential step to get the chicken cooking perfectly.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the apricot jam, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well until it’s smooth. This sweet and savory marinade is what will make your chicken so delicious!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with some paper towels. This helps the skin get that crispy texture. Place the chicken in a large bowl and pour half of the apricot marinade over them, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; if you can do it in the refrigerator, even better!
4. Sear the Chicken:
After the chicken has marinated, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. This adds an extra layer of flavor!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Once the chicken is seared, transfer it to the prepared baking sheet with the skin-side facing up. Brush the remaining marinade over each piece. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. To check, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil for Extra Stickiness:
If you want to make your chicken extra sticky and delicious, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This lets the juices settle so it stays moist. Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your sticky, gooey apricot chicken!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. Boneless thighs may not get as crispy, but they will still be flavorful!
What Can I Substitute for Apricot Jam?
If you don’t have apricot jam, you can use other fruit jams or preserves like peach, orange, or mango. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, so choose one that you enjoy! You can also make a quick substitute by blending fresh or canned apricots with a bit of sugar until smooth.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat.
Can I Make This Dish in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To make this in a slow cooker, sear the chicken as directed, then place it in the slow cooker with the marinade. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through. For a caramelized finish, you can broil the cooked chicken in the oven for a few minutes after it’s done in the slow cooker!
