Apricot Chicken Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Weeknight Dinner

We’ve all been there. It’s one of those busy days when the clock seems to tick faster than you can keep up. The kids are asking for dinner, and you’re looking at the clock wondering how you’re going to get something on the table in time. But don’t worry—I’ve got just the recipe for you: Apricot Chicken!

Now, I know what you’re probably thinking—”That sounds too fancy for a busy weeknight!” But I promise, this recipe is anything but complicated. It’s a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those nights when you want something a little special without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you love sweet and savory flavors that come together in one simple dish, then Apricot Chicken is for you. The sweet apricot jam combined with the rich savory sauce gives the chicken a beautiful glaze that will have your family asking for seconds. And the best part? You only need a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why Apricot Chicken Is a Weeknight Winner

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made Apricot Chicken, and every single time, it’s been a hit. It’s one of those meals that’s super simple to make but has a bit of flair—making it feel just fancy enough for a weeknight dinner or even when guests come over.

What really gets me about this recipe is the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the apricot jam is complemented perfectly by the soy sauce and Dijon mustard. It’s a combination I never would’ve thought of, but now that I’ve tried it, I can’t imagine not using it. The sauce is thick, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet to coat the chicken in an amazing glaze that sticks perfectly without being overwhelming.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can pair it with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a salad for a light side. Whatever you choose, Apricot Chicken has a way of elevating your whole meal. And because it’s so easy, you don’t have to stress about what to serve with it. Just choose your favorite side and let the chicken do all the talking!

Ingredients for Apricot Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe. It’s so simple, you probably already have most of these ingredients on hand!

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer)
• 1/2 cup apricot jam (I recommend using a high-quality apricot jam for the best flavor)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium is a great option if you’re watching your salt intake)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (this adds a subtle kick to the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing the chicken)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

I love that these ingredients are simple and easy to find. You don’t need to run out to a specialty store or break the bank on expensive ingredients. The flavors come from the perfect balance of pantry staples, and it shows in how delicious the dish is.

How to Make Apricot Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

The first thing we need to do is cook the chicken. Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil is heating up, take your chicken breasts (or thighs) and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t be shy—this will give the chicken a great base flavor.

Once the oil is nice and hot, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Sear the chicken on each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until the outside is golden brown. At this stage, the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through since we’ll be finishing it off in the sauce, but the searing helps lock in the juices and gives the chicken a nice crispy outer layer.

Step 2: Make the Apricot Sauce

While the chicken is searing, it’s time to make the apricot sauce. In a small bowl, combine the apricot jam, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir it all together until the jam is completely melted and the ingredients are well mixed. This sauce is where all the magic happens—the combination of sweet apricot, savory soy sauce, and the tangy mustard creates a glaze that’s so irresistible, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything!

Once the chicken is seared and looking golden, pour the apricot sauce over the chicken breasts. You want to make sure the sauce covers the chicken completely so that it can soak in all that flavor. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. The chicken will cook through, and the sauce will thicken and reduce, creating a rich, flavorful glaze.

Step 3: Finish and Serve

Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, you’re done! Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. You can spoon some of the sauce over the chicken, or you can serve it on the side for dipping. I love the extra sauce for drizzling over rice or vegetables.

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or even a side salad for something lighter. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a perfect meal for a busy weeknight. You can even double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger group or want leftovers for the next day. And trust me, this chicken makes some amazing leftovers.

Tips for Making the Best Apricot Chicken

• Adjust the sweetness: If you like a more savory flavor, you can use less apricot jam. On the other hand, if you’re a fan of extra sweetness, feel free to add a little more jam.
• Spicy version: If you want to give the dish a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the apricot sauce. It adds a nice spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the apricot.
• Swap out chicken breasts: Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer a juicier, more tender cut of meat. They’ll absorb the sauce beautifully and have even more flavor.
• Try different jams: While apricot is the classic choice, you could also try peach, mango, or even raspberry jam for a twist. Each one will give the dish a different flavor profile while keeping the sauce deliciously sticky.

Why Apricot Chicken Is So Great

What makes Apricot Chicken stand out is how easy it is to make and how flavorful it is with just a few ingredients. I love having meals like this in my recipe box—ones that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for those nights when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen, but you still want something that feels like a homemade, comforting meal.

This dish also pairs well with so many sides, making it super flexible. Want something fresh and light? Serve it with a simple salad. Want something hearty? Mashed potatoes or rice are perfect. You can easily adjust based on what you have in your pantry or fridge.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that simple recipes like this are the ones you come back to again and again. You don’t have to complicate things to make a delicious meal. Sometimes, the best dishes come from the simplest ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Apricot Chicken recipe as I am to share it with you! It’s one of those meals that never disappoints. The combination of sweet apricot jam, savory soy sauce, and tangy mustard is a winning trio that you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and perfect for any night of the week.

I’d love to hear what you think once you try it! If you have any questions or suggestions for tweaks, drop them in the comments below. I’m always happy to chat about food and share more ideas for easy, delicious meals.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those chicken breasts, and let’s get cooking. You won’t regret it!