Welcome to a mouthwatering journey of flavors with our Barbecue Apricot Chicken recipe! This delightful dish marries the tangy sweetness of apricots with the smoky richness of barbecue sauce, creating a unique and unforgettable taste. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through every step to achieve a delectable meal. Dive in and discover how to prepare this fantastic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

What is Barbecue Apricot Chicken?
Barbecue Apricot Chicken is a tantalizing combination of tender chicken thighs, juicy apricots, and a blend of savory and sweet seasonings. This dish brings together the best of both worlds: the smoky, hearty flavors of barbecue and the refreshing, fruity notes of apricot. The chicken is cooked to perfection, ensuring it's juicy on the inside with a delightful caramelized exterior, making it a hit at any dinner table or barbecue gathering.
Ingredients List for Barbecue Apricot Chicken
To prepare this delicious Barbecue Apricot Chicken, you will 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 (use more if you like, or less)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth (you can also use apple juice or apricot juice)
- 2 tablespoons apricot preserves (try using sugar-free apricot preserves)
- 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 ideas:
- Chicken: You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks if you prefer.
- Apricots: Fresh apricots can be replaced with canned apricots (drained) or dried apricots (reconstituted in warm water).
- Preserves: For a different flavor, use peach or mango preserves instead of apricot.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning blend to your liking or use your favorite barbecue rub.
- Sauce: Experiment with different barbecue sauces, such as spicy, smoky, or honey-flavored varieties.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let's get started with cooking your Barbecue Apricot Chicken. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a delicious result:

- Prepare the Chicken and Apricots:
- Begin by washing the chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
- Cut the apricots in half and remove the seeds.
- Season the Chicken:
- Rub the chicken seasoning blend all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Apricots:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the apricot halves, cut side down, and cook until they begin to caramelize, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the low sodium chicken broth (or apple/apricot juice) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the apricot preserves and barbecue sauce, mixing well until combined.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them.
- Add the caramelized apricots around the chicken.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. This helps in achieving a nice golden-brown crust.
- High Heat: Avoid cooking the chicken on too high heat during the simmering process, as it can dry out the meat. Keep the heat low and let it cook slowly to retain moisture.
- Not Deglazing Properly: Deglaze the pan thoroughly to incorporate all the flavorful bits into the sauce.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Barbecue Apricot Chicken
Serve your Barbecue Apricot Chicken hot, accompanied by a side of your choice. Some great options include:
- Steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Grilled vegetables for a smoky complement.
- Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.
Presentation Ideas for Barbecue Apricot Chicken
- Garnish: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Plating: Arrange the chicken thighs and apricots on a platter, spooning extra sauce over the top.
- Serving Dishes: Use rustic serving dishes or a wooden board for a homey, inviting presentation.
- Extra Touches: Add a few fresh apricot halves around the dish for an elegant touch.
Barbecue Apricot Chicken Recipe Tips
- Marinating: If you have time, marinate the chicken thighs in the seasoning blend for a few hours before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Balance: Adjust the sweetness of the dish by adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce.
- Grilling Option: For a smoky twist, consider grilling the chicken and apricots instead of searing them in the skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time as boneless cuts may cook faster.
Q: What can I substitute for apricots? A: Peaches, nectarines, or plums make great substitutes for apricots in this recipe.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? A: Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Q: Can I make this recipe on the grill? A: Yes, you can grill the chicken and apricots instead of searing them in a skillet. Just be sure to baste with the sauce frequently.
Conclusion
Barbecue Apricot Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of apricots with the savory goodness of barbecue chicken. It's a perfect meal for any occasion, offering a burst of flavors with every bite. With our detailed instructions, tips, and variations, you’ll be able to create this delicious recipe with ease. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a fantastic homemade meal. Happy cooking!
PrintBarbecue Apricot Chicken Recipe
Discover this Barbecue Apricot Chicken recipe with juicy chicken thighs, fresh apricots, and a tangy barbecue glaze. Perfect for summer meals!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
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, use more if you like, or less
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth (or apple juice or apricot juice)
- 2 tablespoons apricot preserves (sugar-free recommended)
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add apricots cut side down and cook for 3-4 minutes until caramelized. Remove and set aside.
- Season the chicken thighs with the chicken seasoning blend.
- Add the remaining oil to the skillet and sear chicken thighs for 5 minutes on each side until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in chicken broth, apricot preserves, and barbecue sauce, mixing well.
- Return apricots to the skillet, placing them around the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve.
Notes
- For a lower sugar option, use sugar-free apricot preserves.
- You can substitute chicken broth with apple or apricot juice for a sweeter flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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