What is Apricot Chicken?
Apricot chicken is one of those comforting, sweet-and-savory dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. It combines juicy, tender chicken with the tangy sweetness of apricot jam and the rich, savory notes of French onion soup mix.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick to prepare with just a few ingredients
- Perfect for family dinners and entertaining guests
- Easy to make ahead or throw in a slow cooker
- Combines sweet, savory, and umami like a culinary symphony
Ingredients Overview
Core Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 packet of French onion soup mix
- 1 cup apricot jam or preserves
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds a mild tang)
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
- A splash of orange juice or white wine
- Minced garlic
- A handful of chopped dried apricots
- Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks hold up best in this recipe, offering more flavor and moisture. Boneless options work, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time.
The Role of French Onion Soup Mix
Flavor Profile of French Onion Soup
French onion soup mix is packed with dehydrated onions, beef flavor, and seasonings. It’s the ultimate umami boost.
Why It Pairs Perfectly with Apricot
The sweetness of apricot jam needs something bold to balance it—enter the savory onion mix. Together, they create a sauce that clings to the chicken and explodes with every bite.
Preparing Apricot Chicken Step by Step
Step 1: Gathering Your Ingredients
Pre-measure everything. Chop your garlic if using. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Mixing the Sauce
In a bowl, mix:
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 1 cup apricot jam
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Layering and Cooking
Place chicken pieces in a baking dish. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top. Make sure all pieces are coated.
Step 4: Oven vs Slow Cooker Options
- Oven: Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, basting once halfway through.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Tips for Best Results
Don’t Skip the Browning
Want even more flavor? Brown your chicken briefly in a skillet before baking. It locks in juices and creates a deeper crust.
Timing and Temperature Guide
Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
How to Prevent Overcooking
If using boneless cuts, reduce oven time to 35–40 minutes. Overcooked chicken becomes dry fast—don’t risk it!
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes to Pair
- Steamed rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Couscous or quinoa
- Roasted vegetables (carrots, zucchini, sweet potatoes)
Wine Pairings
- A fruity Chardonnay
- A semi-dry Riesling
- Even a Rosé works beautifully
Serving for Special Occasions
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve in a deep dish with sauce spooned generously on top.
Variations and Twists
Spicy Apricot Chicken
Add a teaspoon of chili paste or Sriracha for a kick.
Apricot Chicken with Rice or Couscous
Mix cooked rice or couscous directly into the sauce before serving for a one-dish meal.
Low-Sugar or Healthy Variants
Use low-sugar jam and low-sodium soup mix. You can even sub in fresh apricots for a natural, refined sugar-free option.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Can You Freeze Apricot Chicken?
Absolutely. Let it cool, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Best Way to Reheat Without Losing Flavor
Reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through—about 20 minutes. Microwaving works, but can dry it out.
Nutritional Value Breakdown
Calories and Macros
A serving (based on thigh meat) delivers:
- ~320 calories
- 28g protein
- 12g fat
- 25g carbs (mostly from jam)
Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Needs
- Gluten-Free: Use a GF onion soup mix and soy sauce alternative like tamari
- Low-Carb: Try a sugar-free apricot preserve
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much jam: Makes the dish overly sweet
- Skipping the seasoning: Balance the jam with soy sauce or mustard
- Cooking uncovered too long: Sauce can burn or over-reduce
Conclusion
Apricot chicken with French onion soup is a knockout dish that’s simple enough for weeknights but flavorful enough for guests. Whether you cook it in the oven or let it simmer all day in a slow cooker, the result is a mouthwatering combo of sweet, savory, and downright delicious. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a family favorite.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apricots instead of jam?
Yes! Cook them down with a bit of honey or maple syrup until they’re soft and saucy.
Is it okay to use boneless chicken breasts?
Totally. Just reduce the cooking time to prevent drying out.
How long should I cook it in a slow cooker?
6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high.
What can I substitute for French onion soup mix?
Try 2 tablespoons of beef bouillon with 1/4 cup of finely chopped onions and garlic powder.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes, most French onion soup mixes are dairy-free, but check the label to be sure.
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