Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, yet easy-to-make meal that’s both healthy and delicious? Then look no further! This Apricot Chicken with French Onion Soup recipe is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat. The sweet and savory combination of apricots and French onion soup creates a unique and unforgettable taste sensation that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple, homemade cooking can result in truly extraordinary dishes.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed French onion soup
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step is crucial for building flavor! Don't rush it.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and French onion soup. Stir in apricot preserves, sherry (if using), Dijon mustard, and thyme. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a richer sauce.
- Use fresh apricots: If you have fresh apricots, you can halve them and add them to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Apricot Chicken with French Onion Soup recipe is a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to follow, adaptable to your preferences, and sure to become a family favorite. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a symphony on your palate that you won’t soon forget. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, a testament to the ease and satisfaction of homemade cooking and one of the best recipes you'll find for a satisfying and flavorful meal.