Easy 5-Ingredient Baked Apricot Chicken with Sweet Jam Glaze

This incredibly easy oven-baked apricot chicken recipe, featuring a delectable apricot jam glaze, is an absolute dream come true for those busy days when meal inspiration is low, or a trip to the grocery store isn’t on the cards. It’s a fantastic one-pot wonder that demands minimal effort and relies almost entirely on common pantry staples you likely already have. Imagine a warm, flavorful dinner hitting your table with hardly any fuss – that’s precisely what this recipe delivers. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, yet impressive enough for guests, this dish truly proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.

The magic of this apricot sauce comes from a clever combination of flavors. The subtle tang of Dijon mustard, paired with the gentle heat of sweet red chili sauce, gives the sweet apricot jam a wonderful, unexpected kick. Using apricot jam with chicken might sound unconventional to some, but it’s pure brilliance. In fact, this ingenious idea originated from my Mom! It’s quite surprising, but this delicious Baked Apricot Chicken actually evolved from a Honey Mustard Chicken recipe she used to make—a dish, I must admit, I never quite enjoyed.

A Recipe Born from Tastebuds and Love

Navigating family recipes can be tricky, especially when you find yourself not entirely fond of a signature dish everyone else adores. Telling your Mom you don’t like her long-standing, much-loved Honey Mustard Chicken, especially one that your Dad specifically requests for his birthday dinner, is certainly not easy! But thankfully, this new apricot version is genuinely amazing, a testament to culinary evolution and a bit of gentle experimentation. My Mom, being the wonderful person she is, never took my initial dislike personally. Instead, her open-mindedness led to the creation of this fantastic alternative, which we now bond over regularly. It’s a dish that perfectly illustrates how minor adjustments can transform a meal into something truly special and universally loved.

Why This 5-Ingredient Chicken Recipe is a Must-Try

I am a huge advocate for five-ingredient chicken recipes and uncomplicated dinner dishes – the kind you can practically “dump and cook” with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. These types of recipes are lifesavers on busy weeknights, and this baked apricot chicken definitely fits the bill. If you appreciate quick and easy meals, you’ll also love my 5-Ingredient Caprese Sheet Pan Chicken Breast. These simple recipes prove that you don’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a delicious and satisfying meal. They are perfect for meal prepping, feeding a hungry family, or simply enjoying a stress-free dinner after a long day. The beauty of such minimal ingredient recipes lies in their ability to highlight the core flavors, making each component shine.

🥘 Essential Ingredients for Apricot Chicken

To create this mouthwatering apricot chicken, you only need five core ingredients. This recipe intentionally steers clear of soy sauce, which is often found in similar dishes, allowing the unique sweet and savory notes to truly shine without an overly salty undertone. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their tender texture and rich flavor, and they stay incredibly juicy throughout the baking process. They are also economical and readily available.
• Dijon Mustard: This classic French mustard adds a sophisticated, tangy depth that beautifully complements the sweetness of the apricot jam, preventing the sauce from becoming cloying. It’s a key component for balance.
• Apricot Jam: The star of the show! Apricot jam provides the sweet, fruity base for our irresistible glaze. You can use homemade, store-bought, or even reduced-sugar varieties for a healthier twist.
• Butter: A touch of butter enriches the sauce, adding a luxurious creaminess and helping it adhere perfectly to the chicken, creating that desirable glossy finish.
• Sweet Red Chili Sauce: This ingredient introduces a fantastic sweet heat, elevating the flavor profile with a subtle warmth that pairs wonderfully with the apricot and Dijon. It’s the secret weapon for that little “kick.”

*Refer to the full recipe card below for exact quantities and detailed instructions.

📖 Creative Variations and Substitutions

One of the best aspects of this apricot chicken recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand:

• Apricot Jam Alternatives: While apricot jam is traditional, don’t hesitate to get creative. You can use a jar of apricot preserves for a slightly chunkier texture, or even explore other fruit jams. I’ve had fantastic results using black currant jam/preserves, which added a deeper, tart note that was simply amazing. Blueberry jam or cherry preserves could also offer a delightful twist, bringing a different fruity dimension to the dish.
• Adjusting the Chili Sauce: If you’re not a fan of spice, or if you’re serving children, you can easily omit the sweet red chili sauce entirely. For a milder sweetness without the heat, consider substituting it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup. This will maintain the sticky glaze quality while keeping the flavor profile sweet and comforting.
• Chicken Cuts: While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and even cooking, you can certainly use other chicken cuts. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well too; just be mindful that they might cook slightly faster and can dry out if overcooked. For bone-in, skin-on cuts, you might need to increase baking time and consider crisping the skin under the broiler for a few minutes at the end.
• Butter Substitutions: Butter undeniably makes this sauce rich and flavorful. However, if you’re looking to lighten up the dish or make it dairy-free, you can use a plant-based butter substitute. I would generally not recommend olive oil for the sauce itself, as it can affect the texture and flavor of the glaze in this particular application.
• Mustard Options: If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, stone-ground mustard or even regular yellow mustard can be used as alternatives. Keep in mind that yellow mustard will offer a tangier, less complex flavor, so you might want to adjust the amount slightly to taste.
• Slow Cooker Method (Crock Pot): For an even more hands-off approach, this recipe adapts beautifully to a slow cooker. Simply combine all ingredients in your slow cooker with the chicken and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This method results in incredibly tender chicken and a luscious, spoonable sauce.
• Garnish Ideas: Enhance both the visual appeal and fresh flavor by garnishing your finished dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro can add a bright, herbaceous note. For a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor, sesame seeds are an excellent choice. If fresh apricots are in season, thin slices can provide a beautiful and flavorful topping. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also be added as a garnish for those who enjoy an extra touch of heat.

🥗 Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal

This savory and sweet apricot chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and balanced meal. I frequently serve it over fluffy white or brown rice, as the rice perfectly soaks up the extra apricot sauce, creating a truly satisfying bite. For a quick and effortless addition, frozen mixed vegetables are always a reliable choice. However, if you have a little extra time or want to elevate your meal, consider these delicious options:

• Green Beans and Mushrooms: A classic combination that adds earthy flavors and a tender-crisp texture. Sautéed with a touch of garlic, they provide a lovely contrast to the sweet chicken.
• Spinach Salad with Honey Lime Cilantro Dressing: A fresh, vibrant salad with a zesty dressing cuts through the richness of the chicken, offering a refreshing element. The lime and cilantro complement the apricot notes beautifully.
• Garden Side Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with your favorite vinaigrette is always a good choice for lightness and freshness.
• Snap Peas: Steamed or lightly sautéed snap peas offer a delightful crunch and a sweet, fresh flavor that complements the apricot glaze.
• Quick Cucumber Kimchi: For those who enjoy a bit of tangy spice, quick cucumber kimchi provides a surprising and delicious counterpoint to the sweetness of the chicken, adding an interesting textural and flavor dimension.
• Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus spears, seasoned with salt and pepper, make an elegant and healthy side that pairs effortlessly.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are excellent for soaking up every last bit of that delicious apricot sauce, offering a comforting and hearty addition.

💭 Top Tips for a Flawless Baked Apricot Chicken

Achieving the perfect baked apricot chicken is simple, but a few key tips can elevate your dish from great to unforgettable:

• Enhance the Glaze: Before serving, take a moment to dab some additional apricot jam onto the chicken pieces and spoon some of the luscious pan sauce over them. This simple step creates an even more appetizing “apricot glaze” effect, adding extra shine, moisture, and intense flavor, making each piece look and taste irresistible.
• Add a Touch of Heat: For those who enjoy a little extra warmth and visual appeal, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken just before serving can provide a subtle kick and a beautiful pop of color. It’s an optional but highly recommended touch that enhances the sweet-savory balance.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure your chicken pieces have enough space in the baking dish. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, preventing the chicken from getting that lovely caramelized glaze. Use a larger dish or two dishes if necessary.
• Internal Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part. This guarantees safety and optimal tenderness.
• Rest the Chicken: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

🍽 Recommended Equipment

You don’t need any specialized kitchen gadgets to make this delicious apricot chicken. Most of these items are standard kitchen tools:

• Oven-Safe Dish: I typically prepare this Apricot Chicken in a small roaster (affiliate link), which helps keep the chicken moist and the sauce contained. However, any type of casserole dish or baking dish that can comfortably hold the chicken in a single layer will work perfectly.
• Small Mixing Bowl: For whisking together the sauce ingredients.
• Whisk: To ensure all sauce ingredients are well combined and smooth.
• Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s safely cooked.
• Non-stick Cooking Spray: To prepare your baking dish and prevent sticking.

👪 Serving Size and Meal Prep Potential

This delightful chicken with apricot jam recipe is designed to yield 6 generous servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or for preparing several meals throughout the week. One of its greatest advantages is how easily it can be scaled to fit your needs. You can effortlessly halve the recipe if you’re cooking for a smaller household or double or even triple it for larger gatherings or extensive meal prepping. Many online recipe cards, like the one below, allow you to simply click on the serving number to automatically adjust the ingredient quantities, making scaling a breeze. It’s also an excellent candidate for meal prepping; leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so, the next day!

🌡️ Storage and Freezing Instructions

This oven-baked apricot chicken is not only delicious freshly made but also stores wonderfully, making it an excellent choice for meal planning and leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover baked apricot chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures its freshness and flavor are maintained.
• Freezing: For longer storage, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Place the cooled chicken and its accompanying sauce in a freezer-safe, sealed container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months without compromising quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

A Mother-Daughter Culinary Bond

I truly have to say, my Mom TOTALLY redeemed herself with this apricot jam chicken! For a long time, she knew about my particular aversion to her Honey Mustard Chicken. Unlike me, she’s never one to take it personally when someone doesn’t quite enjoy her cooking, which is a wonderful trait to have as a chef! And now, we will always have this delicious and easy Chicken with Apricot Jam as a wonderful dish to bond over. In fact, we often find ourselves connecting and sharing laughter over simple, comforting food like this. It’s a beautiful reminder that food isn’t just about sustenance; it’s about connection, shared memories, and the joy of creating something delicious together.

So, whether you’re looking for an effortless weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing family meal, or a fantastic dish to add to your meal prep rotation, this baked apricot chicken (with its glorious apricot jam glaze) is a recipe the whole family is sure to love and request again and again!

🦺 Food Safety Guidelines

Ensuring food safety is paramount when preparing any meal, especially with poultry. Please adhere to these guidelines to prevent foodborne illness:

• Proper Cooking Temperature: Always cook chicken to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken to verify.
• Prevent Cross-Contamination: Never use the same utensils, cutting boards, or plates on cooked food that previously touched raw meat without thorough washing.
• Handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds after handling raw meat.
• Temperature Danger Zone: Do not leave cooked food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods (typically no more than two hours).
• Never Leave Cooking Unattended: Always monitor food when cooking, especially when using an oven or stovetop.
• High Smoke Point Oils: When cooking with oil, use those with a high smoking point to avoid burning and the formation of harmful compounds.
• Ventilation with Gas Stoves: Always ensure good ventilation when using a gas stove to disperse potential indoor air pollutants.

For more comprehensive food safety guidelines, refer to USDA.gov.

⭐ Leave a Review!

Did you absolutely LOVE this baked apricot chicken recipe? If so, we would be incredibly grateful if you could take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and share your thoughts in a comment below! Your feedback helps other home cooks discover and enjoy this fantastic dish.

📋 More Delicious Chicken Recipes to Try

If you loved this easy apricot chicken, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few more fantastic chicken recipes that are simple to make and packed with flavor:

• Baked Hoisin Sticky Chicken Quarters Recipe: A delightful recipe featuring a sweet and savory hoisin glaze that makes chicken quarters incredibly flavorful and tender.
• Baked Chicken Cacciatore: A rustic Italian-American classic, this baked version of chicken cacciatore is hearty, comforting, and full of rich tomato, pepper, and herb flavors.
• Monterey Chicken – Bonanza Copycat: Recreate the beloved restaurant classic at home with this flavorful Monterey chicken recipe, loaded with cheese, bacon, and barbecue sauce.
• 5-Ingredient Caprese Sheet Pan Chicken Breast: Another easy, minimal-ingredient winner, combining juicy chicken breasts with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a vibrant meal.
• One-Pan Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes: A simple yet elegant dish where chicken and cherry tomatoes are roasted together with a tangy balsamic glaze for maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.