Apricot-glazed Chicken

Apricot-Glazed Chicken Recipe with Peaches and Golden Raisins

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Apricot-glazed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory taste of baked chicken with the sweet and tangy flavor of apricots. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a meal that delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of dried peaches, golden raisins, and apricot jam, along with a hint of garlic and the richness of butter, creates a unique taste that is both comforting and exotic. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing meal that is sure to impress guests.

History

The tradition of glazing meats with fruit-based sauces has a long history that spans across various cultures and continents. The use of apricots in cooking can be traced back to ancient times when they were cultivated in China and the Middle East. The idea of combining apricots with chicken likely emerged from the culinary traditions that favor sweet and savory combinations. Over time, this concept evolved and spread, leading to the creation of various apricot-glazed chicken recipes. This particular recipe, with its blend of dried peaches, raisins, and apricot jam, is a modern take on the classic dish, offering a rich depth of flavor and a nod to its historical roots.

Ingredients

6 lb (2.72 kg) chicken pieces
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp garlic powder
12 oz (340 g) package dried peaches
0.75 cup golden raisins
0.25 cup melted butter
1 cup dry white wine
0.75 cup apricot jam
parsley sprigs

How to prepare

Season the chicken with salt and garlic powder.
Place the peaches and raisins in the bottom of a buttered rectangular baking pan.
Top with the chicken pieces, then brush them with melted butter.
Drizzle 0.75 cup of wine over the chicken, then cover loosely with foil and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45 minutes.
Warm the apricot jam in a small saucepan, then press the jam through a sieve into a bowl.
Stir in the remaining wine.
Uncover the chicken and baste it with the apricot wine mixture.
Continue baking at 325°F (163°C) uncovered for 30 minutes.
Baste frequently until the chicken is tender and deeply glazed.
Garnish with parsley.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider using different dried fruits such as apricots or prunes in place of peaches and raisins. Adding a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon to the apricot wine mixture can introduce an interesting spice element to the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when preparing Apricot-glazed Chicken, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Use chicken pieces of roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.

- Basting the chicken frequently with the apricot wine mixture during the final 30 minutes of baking will enhance the flavor and achieve a beautiful glaze.

- For a thicker sauce, you can reduce the apricot wine mixture on the stove before basting.

- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving to let the juices redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Apricot-glazed Chicken can be served on a bed of fluffy couscous or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad would complement the dish well, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which allows the chicken to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the apricot wine mixture. Basting is a crucial step that involves spooning the sauce over the chicken during cooking to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If apricot jam is not available, peach jam or orange marmalade can be used as a substitute. White grape juice or chicken broth can replace the dry white wine for a non-alcoholic version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

The apricot wine mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. The chicken can also be seasoned and arranged in the baking pan a day in advance, covered, and refrigerated until it's time to bake.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, arrange the glazed chicken pieces on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley sprigs. Serve the extra sauce on the side for guests to add as they please.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors of Apricot-glazed Chicken. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider or peach iced tea would be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Apricot-glazed Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Apricot-glazed Chicken contains approximately 400-500 calories. The exact calorie count can vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the specific ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively moderate in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the dried peaches, golden raisins, and apricot jam. A single serving of Apricot-glazed Chicken contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates. The exact amount can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used and the size of the serving.

Fats

The Apricot-glazed Chicken recipe contains a moderate amount of fat, primarily from the chicken pieces and the melted butter used in the preparation. On average, a serving of this dish provides about 15-20 grams of fat. Opting for skinless chicken pieces can help reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A serving of Apricot-glazed Chicken offers a substantial amount of protein, approximately 35-45 grams, making it a satisfying and muscle-friendly option for a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, particularly those found in dried fruits and chicken. These include vitamin B6, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. The dried peaches and golden raisins also contribute a small amount of dietary fiber and vitamins such as vitamin A and potassium.

Alergens

The primary allergens present in this recipe include wheat (if using a wine that contains wheat-based additives) and sulfites (found in dried fruits and some wines). Individuals with food allergies or sensitivities should check the labels of the ingredients used and make appropriate substitutions if necessary.

Summary

Overall, Apricot-glazed Chicken is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively high in calories, so portion control is recommended for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Summary

Apricot-glazed Chicken is a flavorful and visually appealing dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of apricots and other dried fruits. This recipe is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. With its rich history and versatility, it's a wonderful addition to any meal, whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for apricot-glazed chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margie for our weekly potluck dinner. Margie was always trying out new and exciting recipes, and that day she had prepared this delicious dish that had everyone at the table raving.

As I took my first bite of the tender chicken smothered in a sweet and tangy apricot glaze, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. Margie was kind enough to share her recipe with me, and I have been making it ever since.

The secret to this dish is in the glaze. It's a simple combination of apricot preserves, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger that gives the chicken a unique and flavorful taste. The glaze caramelizes as it bakes, creating a sticky and irresistible coating that perfectly complements the juicy chicken.

I remember watching Margie prepare the dish that day, carefully basting the chicken with the glaze and letting it bake in the oven until it was perfectly cooked. She explained to me that the key to getting the chicken just right was to cook it low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.

After that day, I started making apricot-glazed chicken for my own family, and it quickly became a favorite in our household. I would often make it for special occasions and family gatherings, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made some adjustments to the recipe, adding my own twist here and there to make it my own. I have experimented with different spices and seasonings, trying to find the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. And each time I make it, I remember that warm summer day at Margie's house and the joy that this dish has brought to my family and friends.

There is something special about sharing a meal with loved ones, about coming together around the dinner table and enjoying good food and good company. And for me, apricot-glazed chicken has become a symbol of those moments, a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

As I write down the recipe for apricot-glazed chicken, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful experiences and people that have shaped my love for cooking. From Margie's kitchen to my own, this recipe has traveled through time and space, bringing joy and warmth to those who taste it.

I hope that you will enjoy making this dish as much as I have, and that it will become a cherished recipe in your own family. May it bring you closer to your loved ones and create new memories that will last a lifetime. And may the sweet and savory flavors of apricot-glazed chicken always remind you of the simple joys of sharing a meal with those you hold dear.