What is Apricot Chicken Bake?
Apricot chicken bake is a delicious and simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of apricots with savory chicken. The dish is typically oven-baked, and the apricot sauce is used to coat the chicken and hold in flavor. The resulting dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory that is sure to impress guests and family alike.
The Ingredients Used in Apricot Chicken Bake
The dish requires very basic ingredients, including boneless chicken breasts, apricot jam, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. You can also add other seasonings to the recipe depending on your preference. Some recipes call for fresh apricots, onion, or even crushed red pepper flakes to add a little heat. Still, the dish's base is always the same, with soft and juicy chicken infused with tangy and sweet apricot sauce.
How to Make Apricot Chicken Bake?
Making an apricot chicken bake recipe is a straightforward process that usually doesn't take too much time. To begin, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, start by mixing apricot jam, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a mixing bowl until well combined.
Next, place the boneless chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish and cover them with the apricot mixture. Make sure that each piece of chicken is well-coated with the sauce. You can also pour any remaining sauce over the chicken if desired.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken. After this time, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and caramelized.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish it with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or cilantro. An apricot chicken bake is typically served with vegetables like roasted carrots, green beans or broccoli.
Health Benefits of Apricot Chicken Bake
Apricot chicken bake offers various health benefits due to its primary ingredients. Apricots are rich in vitamin A, C, and potassium, which can help boost your immune system and lower your blood pressure. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, helping promote healthy digestion.
Additionally, chicken is a lean protein source that provides essential amino acids and can help promote muscle growth and development. Soy sauce, used in the recipe, is made from fermented soybeans and has powerful antioxidants that protect cells from harmful free radicals.
Conclusion
Apricot chicken bake is a straightforward and delicious recipe that brings together sweet apricots and savory chicken. With the added health benefits, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a tasty and nutritious meal option. You can always make a large batch of it and reheat it later for lunch or dinner. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its heavenly taste.
Making an apricot chicken bake is a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for weeknight dinners. This dish is not only budget-friendly but can also be customized to suit your taste. With a combination of sweet and tangy flavors, a dish of apricot chicken bake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. However, there are a few things to consider before making this dish. In this article, we will share valuable tips when making apricot chicken bake recipes.
Choose The Right Apricot Sauce
Apricot sauce is the key ingredient for an apricot chicken bake, and it's essential to choose the right one. Depending on your preference, you can go for canned or homemade apricot sauce. The canned apricot sauce is readily available in supermarkets, but a homemade version can have a richer taste. Look for apricot sauce with no added sugar, preservatives, or artificial colors. You can also opt for an organic sauce.
Marinate Chicken Beforehand
Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and texture of the meat. Before baking, mix the chicken with the apricot sauce and some spices of your choice. Cover and refrigerate overnight for the best results.
Select The Right Chicken Cut
Ideally, a boneless, skinless chicken breast is the best cut of meat to use for apricot chicken bake. However, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Whichever cut you choose, ensure that it is the same size to cook evenly.
Don't Overcrowd The Baking Dish
Place the chicken in a shallow baking dish, ensuring that they are not overcrowded, so they cook evenly. Overcrowding the dish can lead to uneven cooking and dry chicken.
Add Vegetables
To add some nutritional value and color to the dish, add some vegetables, such as carrots, onions, or bell peppers. Cut them into small sizes and add them to the baking dish alongside the chicken. The vegetables will absorb the apricot sauce's flavors and enhance the dish's taste.
Cover the Baking Dish
When baking the chicken, cover the baking dish with foil for the first 20-25 minutes. This prevents the chicken from drying out and retains moisture, ensuring that the chicken is tender and juicy.
Check Internal Temperature of Chicken
Bake the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or until the chicken is no longer pink. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's internal temperature. This method helps prevent undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Let The Chicken Rest
After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.
Add a Topping
For an extra element of texture and flavor, add a topping to the dish. Crushed almonds, toasted breadcrumbs, or chopped herbs make a great topping to add some crunch to the dish.
Pair With Side Dishes
Apricot chicken bake pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa salad. Consider the season and your preference to choose a perfect side dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these tips will ensure that you make a delicious and mouth-watering apricot chicken bake. The dish is budget-friendly, easy to make, and customizable to suit your taste. By following these tips, you can create a perfect meal for your family. Experiment with different ingredients, such as honey or soy sauce, to customize the apricot chicken bake to your liking.
