Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Then look no further! This easy recipe for Dried Apricot Chicken is a delicious and surprisingly simple dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal. The sweetness of the dried apricots perfectly complements the savory chicken, creating a unique and satisfying culinary experience. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that even beginner cooks can master. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this unexpectedly delightful recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup dried apricots, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps the chicken brown nicely.
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Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Apricots: Add the chopped dried apricots to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly softened.
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Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, honey, Dijon mustard, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce over the apricots in the skillet. Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it's coated in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with couscous, quinoa, or rice.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Dried Apricot Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey to 1 tablespoon.
- Add some veggies: Enhance the dish by adding other vegetables like chopped onions, bell peppers, or carrots along with the apricots.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Apricot Chicken: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Herby Apricot Chicken: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
- Apricot Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: Thread the cooked chicken and apricots onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and zucchini for a fun and easy appetizer or side dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This simple yet flavorful Dried Apricot Chicken recipe is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and the unique combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!