Description
Apricot Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is a flavorful, comforting one-skillet meal combining tender chicken, sweet dried apricots, tangy balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs. This easy stovetop recipe delivers a rich, juicy sauce perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, pairing wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cooking
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large onion, chopped (Optional)
Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, or to taste
- 20 dried apricots (half cut in half, half whole)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (Optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for about 5 minutes until the pieces are golden around the edges.
- Add the Onion and Vinegar: Stir in the chopped onion and cook for another 3 minutes until softened. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and let it simmer for a few minutes until it slightly reduces.
- Add the Apricots: Cut half of the dried apricots in half and leave the rest whole. Add them to the skillet along with the chicken stock, then bring everything to a gentle simmer.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the apricot preserves and fresh thyme, mixing well until the sauce is fully combined.
- Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the apricots soften and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and serve warm with your choice of rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Sauté minced garlic with the onion for extra flavor.
- Substitute boneless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier texture; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest for bright citrus notes.
- Drizzle honey into the sauce for a sweeter, caramelized finish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken stock to maintain tenderness.
- Use apricot jam if preserves are unavailable; they work similarly.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
