Baked Apricot Chicken Thighs

Sweet and savory come together beautifully in this Apricot Chicken recipe. Tender chicken thighs are coated in a rich sauce made with apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce for a flavor-packed dish that’s ready in no time.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious.

Apricot Chicken

This Apricot Chicken recipe is made with just a few simple, wholesome ingredients, delivering big flavor with minimal effort. The naturally sweet apricot glaze pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy chicken, creating a dish that feels special yet is easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. With no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients, this recipe is a true kitchen staple that everyone will love.

By using fresh, everyday staples instead of processed options, I've kept the dish's delicious character while focusing on quality ingredients. This comforting meal is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

My to tips for delicious Apricot Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken
Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for the best flavor and juiciness. The skin helps retain moisture, and the bones add depth to the dish.

Spoon Sauce Over the Chicken
Before placing the dish in the oven, spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to help it caramelize and infuse with flavor while baking.

Bake Uncovered
Bake the chicken uncovered so the sauce can thicken and develop a rich, glossy finish during the cooking process.

Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 180-190°F for perfectly cooked tender meat.

Baked Apricot Chicken Ingredients

• Chicken - I use bone-in, skin on chicken thighs. You could also use skinless chicken thighs.
• Apricot Jam - Homemade or store-bought works fine. I have also used peach jam in this recipe.
• Onion and Garlic - finely chopped
• Dijon Mustard - adds the perfect flavor
• Soy Sauce - adds a depth of flavor to the sauce. Use low sodium if you have it.
• Apple Cider Vinegar - Gives the sauce a tang!
• Honey - adds a bit of sweetness.
• Seasoning - dried ginger powder and red pepper flakes

How to make Apricot Chicken

1. Make sauce - place all ingredients in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until the jam has melted and everything is heated through.

2. Trim any excess fat or skin from chicken thighs. Place in a lightly greased baking dish and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Pour sauce over prepared chicken and place uncovered in a 375°F preheated oven.

4. Bake for 20 minutes and then baste sauce over thighs. Just use a spoon and scoop up any sauce in the pan and pour over each chicken thigh.
5. Return to oven for another 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and the chicken is beginning to brown.
6. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, top with freshly chopped parsley.
7. Skim any grease off of the remaining sauce and serve the sauce on the side

Apricot Chicken Recipe tips

• Use any size casserole dish that will hold the chicken. I used an 8x11-inch dish.
• Bake chicken uncovered.
• When the chicken is baked through, you can place it under the broiler for a few minutes to help caramelize the chicken. Keep a close eye on the chicken so it doesn't burn.
• The extra sauce is great to serve on the side. Just skim any excess grease off the sauce first.
• Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Apricot Glazed Chicken

Serve with any of your favorite side dishes. Some of ours include:

• Rice
• Mashed Potatoes
• Twice Baked Potato Casserole
• Fruit Salad
• Sauteed Peas
• Green Beans

How to store Apricot Glazed Chicken

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months.

The chicken can be reheated in the microwave for 60-90 seconds until heated through or it can be placed in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until it is fully heated.

Frozen apricot chicken should be fully thawed before reheating.

More delicious chicken recipes

• Italian Dressing Chicken
• Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
• Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wraps
• Cast Iron Chicken Thighs
• Pesto Chicken Sandwich
• Creamy Chicken Orzo
• Baked Honey Chicken Thighs

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below and snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @beyondthechickencoop

Be certain to check out all my delicious dinner recipes!