Barbecue Apricot Chicken Recipe

If you're looking for a dish that combines the sweetness of apricots with the savory richness of barbecue chicken, you've come to the right place. This Barbecue Apricot Chicken recipe is a must-try, offering a delightful mix of flavors that will leave you craving more. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious meal, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion that calls for something special.

What is Barbecue Apricot Chicken?

Barbecue Apricot Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the tangy sweetness of apricots and the smoky, savory notes of barbecue sauce. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs that are seared to perfection, then baked with a luscious apricot and barbecue sauce. The result is a dish that's bursting with flavor and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients List for Barbecue Apricot Chicken

To make this delightful Barbecue Apricot Chicken, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 6 to 8 small apricots, cut in half and seeds removed
• 6 skinless, bone-in chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning blend (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup low sodium chicken broth (alternatively, apple juice or apricot juice can be used)
• 2 tablespoons apricot preserves (sugar-free apricot preserves are an option)
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• Sliced green onions, for garnish

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you might consider:

• Chicken: If you prefer, you can use boneless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts instead of bone-in thighs. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Apricots: Fresh apricots are ideal, but canned apricots (drained) or dried apricots (reconstituted) can also work in a pinch.
• Broth: As mentioned, apple juice or apricot juice can replace chicken broth for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Preserves: Experiment with different fruit preserves like peach or pineapple for a unique twist.
• Seasoning: Customize the seasoning blend to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or use a pre-made BBQ rub.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Barbecue Apricot Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sear the Apricots: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the apricot halves and cook for about 1 minute per side until they start to caramelize. Remove the apricots from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken seasoning blend all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Sear the Chicken: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet and heat over medium. Place the chicken thighs in the hot skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes per side until they are browned. You might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once seared, remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low and add the minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant. Carefully pour in the chicken broth, using a whisk to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Whisk in the apricot preserves until fully incorporated, followed by the barbecue sauce. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened.
6. Combine and Bake: Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the seared chicken thighs and apricots back into the skillet, turning them to coat in the sauce. Loosely cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Finish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: When searing the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking the chicken to guarantee even cooking.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more flavorful and juicy meat.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Barbecue Apricot Chicken

Barbecue Apricot Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:

• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser and pair well with the savory sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Barbecue Apricot Chicken

• Garnish: Sprinkle sliced green onions or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the top for a pop of color.
• Plating: Arrange the chicken thighs and apricots neatly on a platter, drizzling with extra sauce for an appetizing look.
• Serve Family-Style: For a more casual setting, serve the chicken directly from the skillet, allowing guests to help themselves.

Barbecue Apricot Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh apricots and garlic can make a significant difference in the overall flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more apricot preserves or a touch of honey.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Chicken thighs are forgiving, but be careful not to overcook them to keep them juicy and tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken together in a skillet until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Q: What other fruits can I use instead of apricots? A: Peaches, nectarines, or even plums can be great substitutes for apricots in this recipe.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, as long as your barbecue sauce and chicken broth are gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Barbecue Apricot Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines the best of sweet and savory flavors. With its tender chicken, caramelized apricots, and rich barbecue sauce, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and always impresses. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors in

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