Traditional Apricot Chicken Recipe

Discover this easy and delicious Apricot Chicken recipe! With just a few ingredients—apricot jelly, French dressing, and French onion soup mix—this flavorful dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Ready in under an hour

The first time I made dinner for Forrest at my apartment, I wanted to impress him, so I turned to a dish I loved for being both elegant and effortless—Apricot Chicken! It’s a simple recipe that even a beginner can master, yet the flavors are rich and satisfying. The sweet, tangy apricot glaze and tender chicken make it a perfect weeknight meal. Forrest seemed to enjoy it, so I counted it as a success! Over time, it became a go-to recipe in our household, and it’s still a favorite.

If you’re looking for a delicious, no-fuss dinner that feels a little fancy, this Apricot Chicken is precisely what you need!

Ingredients:

• 2-3 chicken breasts, cut in half (or 4-5 chicken tenderloins)
• 1 (18-ounce) jar Apricot Jelly
• ½ of a 16-ounce container of French Dressing
• 1 packet French Onion Soup Mix

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine the apricot jelly, French dressing, and French onion soup mix in a medium bowl until well mixed.
3. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer of a glass baking dish.
4. Pour the apricot mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
5. Bake for 45 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature of 165°F).
6. Serve hot over rice or pasta for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips + Suggestions:

• Even Coating: For the best results, try to coat the chicken evenly in the apricot mixture. Basting the chicken halfway through cooking can also help enhance the flavor.
• Rice or Pasta: This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, but you can also serve it over pasta, couscous, or even mashed potatoes.
• Vegetable Pairing: Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli complement this dish well, providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the sauce.

Substitutions

• Apricot Jelly: Peach preserves work great as a substitute if you don’t have apricot jelly. Of course, it would then be called peach chicken!
• French Dressing: Catalina dressing can be used in place of French dressing for a similar flavor.
• Chicken Cuts: Boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts or tenderloins for a richer flavor.

Storage Recommendations:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This dish can also be frozen. Place cooked and cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a covered baking dish and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave in 1-minute increments until hot.

This Apricot Chicken recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just need a quick, tasty dinner, it’s bound to impress!

More Dinner Ideas You May Enjoy:

• Easy Lasagna Recipe Without Ricotta Cheese
• The Best Instant Pot BBQ Chicken with Potatoes
• Easy Low Carb Pork Tenderloin Stir Fry with Veggies