Apricot Chicken
This Apricot Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
With its sticky-sweet glaze and tender chicken pieces, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, this dish offers a harmonious balance of fruity sweetness and umami depth.
Ingredients
- 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1 cup Catalina salad dressing
- 1 (1 ounce) packet dry onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2-3 heads broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice and chopped scallions, for serving
Instructions
1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
2. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, and salt over the broccoli. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 3-4 minutes until fork-tender. Remove and set aside, covered with foil.
3. Add remaining oil to the skillet. Cook chicken cubes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in apricot preserves, Catalina dressing, onion soup mix, and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix well and bring to a low simmer.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and serve with cooked rice and broccoli. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Possible Substitutes and Variations
– Use peach preserves instead of apricot for a different fruity twist
– Substitute chicken thighs for breasts for juicier meat
– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
– Use French dressing instead of Catalina for a tangier flavor
– Swap broccoli for green beans or asparagus
Serving Suggestions
Serve over fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce
Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast
Accompany with crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce
For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice
Garnish with toasted sliced almonds for added crunch