Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory? Look no further than these mouthwatering Apricot Basil Chicken Thighs! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe transforms simple chicken into a culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing. Imagine succulent, juicy thighs glazed with a delightful apricot-basil sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to impress. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create this deliciously easy meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a ceramic baking dish.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, chopped fresh basil, and olive oil until well combined, creating a smooth glaze.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the seared chicken thighs to the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up.
- Brush the chicken thighs generously with the apricot-basil glaze, making sure to coat each piece completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with additional fresh chopped basil before serving. Pair with roasted vegetables or rice.
Tips
- Patience is Key: For the crispiest skin, make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This helps the skin crisp up nicely during cooking.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Searing the chicken thighs skin-side down in a hot skillet adds an incredible depth of flavor and a beautiful golden color.
- Glaze Generously: When brushing on the apricot-basil glaze, don’t be shy! Make sure each piece is generously coated for maximum flavor.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juicy, tender meat.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Pair It Right: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a side of rice, which will soak up the delicious glaze. Consider adding a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 668kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 80mg
