What type of chicken is best for making apricot chicken?

Apricot chicken works well with boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs. Thighs, especially bone-in and skin-on, are preferred for juicier results, while breasts offer a leaner option. You can adjust cooking times if using thicker cuts or bone-in pieces to ensure they are cooked through without drying out.

Can I substitute apricot jam with other fruit preserves for apricot chicken?

Yes, if you don’t have apricot jam, peach, orange marmalade, or pineapple preserves are great alternatives. These options bring a similar sweetness and fruit flavor that complements the chicken. Using different preserves will alter the taste slightly, allowing you to customize the dish.

Is browning the chicken necessary before cooking apricot chicken in a slow cooker?

Browning the chicken before slow cooking is optional but recommended. It helps develop deeper flavor and a better texture by locking in juices and creating a slight crust. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the dish may have a less robust flavor.

Can I add vegetables or other ingredients to apricot chicken for a one-pot meal?

Yes, adding vegetables like baby potatoes, green beans, or carrots works well, especially in slow cooker versions. Just keep in mind that root vegetables may require longer cooking times. Adding veggies turns apricot chicken into a convenient, complete meal.

How can I make apricot chicken if I don’t have dry onion soup mix?

If dry onion soup mix isn’t available, mix 2 teaspoons beef bouillon granules, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, ½ teaspoon celery seed, ½ teaspoon paprika, plus salt and pepper to taste. This combination mimics the savory and herbal notes of onion soup mix, maintaining the recipe’s flavor balance.

Apricot Chicken Recipe With Charred Scallions And Easy Prep

Ingredients

Scale

6 bone-in chicken thighs
1 1/2 cups apricot preserves
1 cup Russian or French dressing
1 envelope (about 1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
Cooking oil for browning chicken
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, mix apricot preserves, dressing, and dry onion soup mix until well combined.
2. Season chicken generously with salt and pepper. Optionally, brown the chicken in a skillet with heated oil for 1-2 minutes per side.
3. Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. For a complete meal, add sliced baby Yukon or red potatoes to the slow cooker to absorb the sauce.

Last Step:

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Notes

🍖 Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide juicier results, but boneless or skinless work too.
🍯 Browning before slow cooking enhances flavor but is optional for a quicker meal.
🍑 Substitute with other fruit preserves to vary the taste and experience.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Slow Cooking Time: 3 to 4 hours
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 thigh
Calories: 420
Sugar: 26g
Sodium: 821mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 49g
Cholesterol: 145mg