Savory Apricot-Glazed Chicken Thighs
Indulge in the rich flavors of Savory Apricot-Glazed Chicken Thighs, a delightful main dish that showcases boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a luscious apricot sauce. This recipe perfectly balances the sweetness of apricot preserves with the tanginess of lemon juice and the warmth of roasted garlic and thyme, resulting in an exquisite flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether roasted to tender perfection in the oven or grilled for a smoky finish, each bite is finished with a zesty apricot glaze that enhances the dish's appeal. Ideal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish is sure to impress.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs
2.5-3 lbs (Boneless and skinless)
Apricot Preserves
3/4 cup (Split into two portions (3/4 cup for marinade, 3/4 cup for glaze))
Dry Sherry
1/2 cup
Spicy Brown Mustard
2 teaspoons (Split into two portions (2 teaspoons for marinade, 2 teaspoons for glaze))
Lemon Juice
2 teaspoons (Split into two portions (2 teaspoons for marinade, 2 teaspoons for glaze))
Roasted Garlic
1 teaspoon (Minced)
Dried Thyme
1 teaspoon
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon
Brown Sugar
1 tablespoon
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of apricot preserves, dry sherry, spicy brown mustard, lemon juice, minced roasted garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until completely smooth and well combined.
2
Transfer the marinade into a large gallon-sized plastic bag or a shallow dish. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 4-6 hours, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure even marination.
3
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the marinated chicken thighs from the bag and place them in a single layer in a lightly oiled baking dish. Discard the excess marinade but allow some to cling to the chicken for added flavor.
4
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and juices run clear, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5
In the final 15 minutes of cooking, prepare the glaze: Place the remaining 3/4 cup of apricot preserves into a small saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently for about 3 minutes, or until the preserves achieve a syrup-like consistency.
6
Add the brown sugar, mustard, and lemon juice to the saucepan, letting the mixture simmer on low heat until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
7
Once the chicken is done, drizzle the warm apricot glaze over the chicken thighs, and enjoy this scrumptious main dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this dish?
The dish is called Savory Apricot-Glazed Chicken Thighs.
What type of chicken should I use?
You should use 2.5 to 3 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
How long does the chicken need to marinate?
The chicken should be marinated in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long do I bake the chicken?
Bake the chicken for 40 to 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What ingredients are in the marinade?
The marinade includes apricot preserves, dry sherry, spicy brown mustard, lemon juice, roasted garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, the recipe suggests you can grill it for a smoky finish.
What should I do with excess marinade?
Discard the excess marinade before baking, allowing only some to cling to the chicken.
How do I prepare the apricot glaze?
Heat apricot preserves in a saucepan for 3 minutes, then stir in brown sugar, mustard, and lemon juice until thickened.
When should I apply the glaze?
Drizzle the warm apricot glaze over the chicken thighs once they are fully cooked.
What kind of mustard is used in this recipe?
Spicy brown mustard is used for both the marinade and the glaze.
Is the garlic raw or roasted?
The recipe calls for minced roasted garlic.
How much brown sugar is in the glaze?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It is a balance of sweetness from apricot preserves and tanginess from lemon and mustard.
How should I arrange the chicken in the baking dish?
Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in a lightly oiled baking dish.
What consistency should the glaze have?
The glaze should have a syrup-like consistency and be slightly thickened.
How much apricot preserves are needed in total?
You need a total of 1.5 cups, split into two 3/4 cup portions.
What alcohol is used in the marinade?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of dry sherry.
Is the chicken supposed to be skinless?
Yes, the recipe specifies using skinless chicken thighs.
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
While the recipe specifies thighs, you could use breasts, though cooking times may vary.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The juices should run clear and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
What herb is used for seasoning?
Dried thyme is the primary herb used.
Should I turn the chicken during marination?
Yes, turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even marination.
What size bag should I use for marinating?
A large gallon-sized plastic bag is recommended.
What is the first step of the recipe?
Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth.
Is this recipe suitable for weeknights?
Yes, it is ideal for both family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
How much salt and pepper are used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Does the glaze require lemon juice?
Yes, lemon juice is added to the glaze to provide tanginess.
How many total ingredients are listed?
There are 10 main ingredients listed for this recipe.
Should the marinade be smooth?
Yes, whisk the marinade until it is completely smooth and well combined before adding chicken.