Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare? Meet Baked Apricot Onion Chicken—a mouthwatering recipe that combines juicy chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy apricot glaze, perfectly complemented by caramelized onions. This American classic is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes, making it the perfect centerpiece for any meal. With just an hour of your time, you can create a comforting and flavorful dish that will leave your family and friends begging for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how to make a dinner that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the apricot preserves, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until well combined. This will create a flavorful glaze for the chicken.
- Take the chicken thighs and season them with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions and sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
- Push the sautéed onions to the side of the skillet and add the seasoned chicken thighs. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a nice color and flavor to the chicken.
- Once the chicken is browned, pour the apricot glaze over the chicken thighs, making sure they are well coated. Spread the sautéed onions evenly around the chicken in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, making it more tender and juicy.
- Serve the baked apricot onion chicken warm, garnished with any remaining apricot glaze and onions from the skillet. This dish pairs well with rice or a fresh green salad.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and moisture. They hold up beautifully during baking and provide a richer taste compared to boneless cuts.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinating the chicken in the apricot glaze for a few hours or overnight can deepen the flavors and make the dish even more delectable.
- Sauté the Onions to Perfection: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to caramelize slightly to bring out their natural sweetness, which complements the apricot preserves beautifully.
- Check the Temperature: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve with a Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or a crisp green salad, which helps balance the sweetness of the apricot glaze.
- Garnish Creatively: For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 273kcal
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 23mg
