Apricot- Balsamic Chicken

Name: Apricot-Balsamic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon vegetable oil; ½ medium red onion, finely chopped; 1½ teaspoons minced fresh thyme; ½ teaspoon salt (divided); 16 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breasts (4 cutlets); ⅓ cup all-fruit or reduced-sugar apricot jam; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Published: June 21, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 35 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Glaze: The combination of apricot jam and balsamic vinegar creates a rich sauce that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve alongside rice, vegetables, or salad for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in calories, this dish aligns with healthy eating habits without sacrificing taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for the Apricot-Balsamic Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick skillet
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick skillet: Ensures even cooking without sticking, making cleanup easy.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cutting of vegetables and chicken, saving time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 teaspoon vegetable or canola oil
½ medium red onion, (finely chopped)
1½ teaspoons minced fresh thyme
½ teaspoon salt, (divided)
16 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breasts ((4 cutlets))

For the Sauce

⅓ cup all fruit or reduced-sugar apricot jam
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Apricot- Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat until hot. Add the onion; sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s softened.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Sprinkle thyme and ¼ teaspoon salt over the chicken. Add the chicken to the pan; sauté for about 6 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep warm.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add ¼ teaspoon salt, jam, vinegar, and pepper to the pan. Stir constantly until the jam melts into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Serve

Spoon the sauce over the chicken and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your delicious Apricot-Balsamic Chicken!

How to Serve Apricot- Balsamic Chicken

Serving Apricot-Balsamic Chicken can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavors and making it suitable for any occasion.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Fresh thyme or parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

Pair with Seasonal Vegetables

Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans complement the chicken’s sweetness.

Serve Over Rice or Quinoa

A bed of fluffy rice or quinoa absorbs the delicious sauce, making every bite delightful.

Add a Side Salad

A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken, providing freshness.

Enjoy with Crusty Bread

Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce, adding texture to your meal.

How to Perfect Apricot- Balsamic Chicken

Perfecting Apricot-Balsamic Chicken is all about technique and timing. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

Preheat your skillet: Ensuring your skillet is hot before adding ingredients helps achieve a good sear on the chicken.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme delivers more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
Monitor chicken doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and tenderness.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of apricot jam based on your taste preferences.
Allow resting time: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Experiment with sauces: Feel free to experiment by adding spices or different vinegars to create variations in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apricot- Balsamic Chicken

Pairing your Apricot-Balsamic Chicken with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the savory notes of the chicken.
Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and color while being nutritious, balancing out the dish’s sweetness.
Couscous Salad – A refreshing couscous salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a bright contrast to the rich flavors of apricot-balsamic sauce.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the tartness of balsamic vinegar.
Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa mixed with nuts and dried fruits provides both texture and flavor that harmonizes well with the chicken dish.
Grilled Zucchini – Grilled zucchini slices add a smoky flavor that complements the apricot glaze while keeping it healthy.
Baked Potato Wedges – Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for an easy yet satisfying side option.
Cauliflower Rice – For a lighter option, cauliflower rice tossed in olive oil provides a low-carb alternative that soaks up the delicious sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Apricot- Balsamic Chicken can be easy, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

Bold seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always remember to sprinkle salt and pepper generously before cooking.
Bold cooking temperature: Cooking the chicken on too high heat can cause it to burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Always cook at medium heat for even cooking.
Bold jam choice: Using regular apricot jam instead of all-fruit or reduced-sugar options may result in overly sweet sauce. Opt for healthier jam varieties for better flavor balance.
Bold adjusting timing: Not adjusting cooking time based on chicken thickness can lead to overcooked or undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
Bold neglecting sauce: Skipping the step of stirring the sauce can leave lumps from the jam. Always stir consistently until smooth for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Apricot- Balsamic Chicken

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Apricot- Balsamic Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking halfway.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Apricot- Balsamic Chicken.

Can I use other fruits with this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute apricot jam with other fruit jams like peach or mango for different flavor profiles.

How do I ensure my chicken is juicy?

To keep your chicken tender, avoid overcooking and let it rest after cooking before slicing.

What sides pair well with Apricot- Balsamic Chicken?

This dish goes well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Apricot- Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or serving it with various sides. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavor!

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