The combination of tangy apricot preserves and savory onion soup mix makes this Apricot Chicken a flavor-packed dish that’s deceptively simple to prepare. The skillet-seared chicken gets coated in a glossy, sticky-sweet glaze that clings to every bite, making it irresistible when paired with fluffy rice and crisp-tender broccoli.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner with minimal fuss or a meal that impresses without the effort, this dish is a must-try. With only a handful of pantry staples, it transforms into something comforting and vibrant that feels far more special than the time it takes to make. Perfect for families, dinner guests, or meal prepping for flavorful lunches all week.
Full Recipe:
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4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
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2-3 heads broccoli
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1⁄2 teaspoon onion powder
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1⁄2 teaspoon salt
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1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 cup apricot preserves
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1 cup Catalina salad dressing
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1 (1-ounce) packet dry onion soup mix
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Cooked rice, for serving
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Chopped scallions, for garnish
Directions:
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Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Chop broccoli into florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
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Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water, reduce heat, and cook for 3-4 minutes until fork-tender. Remove and set aside, covered loosely with foil.
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Add remaining oil to the skillet. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
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Stir in apricot preserves, Catalina dressing, onion soup mix, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.
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Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve over cooked rice, with broccoli on the side, and garnish with scallions.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 415 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Story Behind Apricot Chicken
Apricot chicken is a beloved retro dish that first rose to popularity in American kitchens during the 1970s and 80s. Its appeal lies in its clever combination of sweet and savory flavors—offering a vibrant contrast that elevates ordinary chicken into a crave-worthy entrée. While it might sound gourmet, this dish is deeply rooted in home cooking traditions, often passed down from generation to generation.
The recipe gained popularity due to its simplicity and pantry-friendly ingredients: apricot preserves, a bottle of Catalina dressing, and a packet of dry onion soup mix. When combined, these components create a sticky, glossy glaze that clings to tender pieces of chicken. It’s one of those nostalgic comfort foods that tastes like home, even if you’ve never had it before.
Why Apricot Chicken Works
What makes this dish stand out is the interplay of flavors. The apricot preserves bring natural fruitiness and subtle tartness, while Catalina dressing adds a zesty, tangy undertone. The dry onion soup mix contributes a depth of umami that ties the sauce together and balances the sweetness. Optional Dijon mustard adds just a touch of sharpness, creating a more complex flavor profile.
Because of these complementary layers, the sauce develops a rich character that feels more sophisticated than its humble origins. Despite being made with only a few ingredients, the result is a full-flavored, sticky glaze that transforms plain chicken into something exciting.
A Quick Weeknight Hero
Apricot chicken is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying on the table fast. The total cooking time is typically under 30 minutes, making it faster than ordering takeout. There’s minimal prep involved—just a quick sear of the chicken followed by simmering the sauce until it thickens. It’s practically foolproof and perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time.
Plus, this recipe is easy to scale up for a crowd. You can double the quantities for meal prepping or feeding a larger family without needing any special equipment. It’s also easily adaptable to both stovetop and slow cooker methods, offering flexibility for different cooking styles.
Flavor Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. The natural sweetness of the sauce is balanced perfectly by the earthiness of steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. White rice is a traditional pairing, but brown rice, jasmine rice, or even couscous also work well to soak up the flavorful sauce.
If you’re looking to elevate the presentation, serve it with a sprinkle of chopped scallions or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. The pop of green adds color contrast while also enhancing the dish’s freshness. For a more indulgent touch, you can even serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a crusty bread roll to mop up the leftover glaze.
Protein Swaps and Recipe Variations
Although chicken breast is the go-to protein in most apricot chicken recipes, this dish is highly versatile. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more tender bite. Bone-in pieces like drumsticks and wings can also be used—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
If you’re looking to mix things up, apricot preserves can be swapped for other fruity options like peach jam, orange marmalade, or pineapple preserves. Each variation will bring a slightly different sweetness and character to the glaze.
You can also experiment with different salad dressings. While Catalina is classic, French dressing or even a honey-mustard blend can offer a fun twist. Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for added depth, or stir in some chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Tips for the Best Apricot Chicken
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your apricot chicken comes out perfect every time:
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Sear the Chicken First: Don’t skip browning the chicken before adding the sauce. It builds flavor through caramelization and creates a better texture.
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Use High-Quality Preserves: Since apricot is the star, make sure to use a good-quality preserve without too many additives. Homemade is even better if you have it.
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Balance the Sweetness: If the glaze is too sweet for your taste, add a splash of lemon juice or a little vinegar to brighten and balance it out.
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Avoid Overcooking: Once the sauce is simmering, monitor it closely. Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if overcooked. The goal is a juicy interior with a caramelized glaze on the outside.
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Let It Rest: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes before serving allows the sauce to thicken slightly more and cling better to the chicken.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
One of the great things about apricot chicken is how well it stores and reheats. This makes it ideal for meal prepping or preparing in advance for a weeknight dinner.
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
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Freezing: Apricot chicken freezes very well. Cool the dish completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power in short bursts, stirring between intervals.
Apricot Chicken Around the World
While this version of apricot chicken is rooted in American home cooking, similar sweet-and-savory chicken dishes exist in other cuisines as well. In Chinese-American cuisine, apricot-glazed chicken is a popular alternative to sweet and sour chicken. In Middle Eastern cooking, apricot and citrus sauces are often used in tagines and stews.
This shows how apricot’s natural acidity and sweetness make it an ideal partner for savory meats, transcending cultural boundaries and adapting to different cooking traditions.
Conclusion
Apricot chicken is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish checks all the boxes—it’s easy, fast, affordable, and packed with flavor.
Its nostalgic appeal combined with modern versatility makes it a favorite for all ages. You can keep it traditional or tweak it to suit your palate, dietary needs, or pantry availability. The sweet, tangy glaze brings warmth and comfort to every bite, making it a go-to recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.
Apricot chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s a reminder that sometimes the best dishes are the ones that surprise you with their simplicity and heartwarming taste.