Chicken Apricot

Chicken Apricot Recipe with Brandy and Nectar

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Apricot is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with sweet and tangy apricots. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a family meal, and is sure to impress your guests with its unique combination of flavors.

History

The origins of Chicken Apricot are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the Middle East, where apricots are a popular ingredient in savory dishes. The combination of sweet apricots with savory chicken has been enjoyed for centuries, and this recipe puts a modern twist on a classic flavor pairing.

Ingredients

6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
1.5 cups of water
salt and pepper to taste
2 cans (15.25 oz / 432 g) of drained apricot halves
1 cup of apricot nectar
5 tbsp of brandy (optional)

How to prepare

Set the rack in the cooker.
Place the chicken and water on top of the rack in the pressure cooker.
Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper to season.
Lock the lid and bring it to full pressure.
Reduce the heat, maintaining the pressure, and cook for 8 minutes.
Release the pressure.
Drain the chicken, reserving the stock.
Remove the skin and bones from the breasts and discard them.
Place the breasts in a single layer in a greased casserole dish.
Set the drained apricot halves on top.
Combine the reserved broth and nectar and pour it over the chicken.
Cover and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15 – 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Stir in brandy, as desired, just before serving.

Variations

You can add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the dish for added crunch.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the apricot halves well before placing them on top of the chicken to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add more brandy to the dish before serving.

- Make sure to cook the chicken breasts until they are heated through to ensure that they are tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Apricot can be served with rice, couscous, or a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a combination of pressure cooking and baking to ensure that the chicken breasts are tender and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have apricot nectar, you can substitute orange juice or apple juice for a similar flavor profile. You can also use peach halves instead of apricot halves if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken and apricot mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Apricot on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and sliced apricots for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken Apricot pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with sparkling water or a fruity iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Chicken Apricot can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Apricot contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Apricot contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Apricot contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Apricot contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Apricot is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies before serving.

Summary

Chicken Apricot is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Apricot is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a special dinner or a family meal. With its unique combination of flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chicken Apricot. It was a cool autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, in her cozy kitchen. Mrs. Jenkins was a wonderful cook and had a wealth of recipes passed down through generations.

As we sat at her kitchen table sipping tea, Mrs. Jenkins pulled out an old, tattered cookbook from her collection. She flipped through the pages until she landed on a recipe that caught my eye - Chicken Apricot. The combination of tender chicken and sweet apricots sounded delicious, and I couldn't wait to learn how to make it.

Mrs. Jenkins smiled at my excitement and began to recount the story of how she came to learn this recipe. She explained that many years ago, she had traveled to France and stayed with a family in a small village. The matriarch of the family, Madame Pierre, was an incredible cook and took Mrs. Jenkins under her wing during her stay.

Madame Pierre taught Mrs. Jenkins the art of French cooking, including the recipe for Chicken Apricot. The dish was a family favorite and was often served at gatherings and special occasions. Mrs. Jenkins fondly remembered the aroma of the chicken roasting in the oven, mingling with the sweetness of the apricots.

I listened intently as Mrs. Jenkins shared the recipe with me, taking notes on each step and ingredient. She emphasized the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking the time to properly marinate the chicken for maximum flavor.

After our visit, I couldn't wait to try making Chicken Apricot on my own. I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, following Mrs. Jenkins' instructions carefully. The aromas that filled my kitchen as the chicken roasted were heavenly, and I knew I had created something truly special.

I served the Chicken Apricot to my family that evening, and they couldn't get enough of it. The tender chicken paired perfectly with the sweet apricots, creating a dish that was both comforting and elegant. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Chicken Apricot for countless family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Each time I cook it, I think of Mrs. Jenkins and the wonderful memories we shared in her kitchen that day.

As I pass this recipe down to future generations, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. I am grateful to Mrs. Jenkins for sharing her knowledge and passion for cooking with me, and I will always cherish the day I learned how to make Chicken Apricot.