Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible BBQ Apricot Chicken recipe, a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Succulent, boneless chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a luscious sauce made from tangy BBQ sauce, sweet apricot preserves, a splash of umami-packed soy sauce, and aromatic garlic. Grill or bake to tender perfection, occasionally basting the chicken to lock in the flavor, and garnish with charred fresh apricots and a sprinkle of thyme for an elegant finish. Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy nights yet impressive enough for entertaining. Perfectly balanced and irresistibly delicious, itβs the ultimate fusion of summer barbecue and fruity flair.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine apricot preserves, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.
Season the chicken thighs with salt and ground black pepper evenly on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Preheat your grill to medium heat or preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
Transfer the seared chicken thighs to a grill-safe pan if grilling, or an oven-safe dish if baking.
Pour the apricot and BBQ mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Grill the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or bake it in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C).
If using fresh apricots, add them to the grill during the last 5 minutes of cooking to char slightly, or serve as a fresh garnish.
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic finish, if desired.
Calories |
2342 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 80.5 g | 103% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.2 g | 101% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 654 mg | 218% | |
| Sodium | 3239 mg | 141% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 225.1 g | 82% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.5 g | 23% | |
| Total Sugars | 215.0 g | ||
| Protein | 164.5 g | 329% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 175 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 8.2 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 2105 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.