Apricot Almond Chicken Recipe

This apricot almond chicken recipe is a delicious combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors. The tender chicken is coated in a rich apricot and almond sauce that brings an exquisite balance to the dish. It's a simple recipe with complex flavors that will surely impress your family and guests.

Photos of Apricot Almond Chicken Recipe

This recipe calls for unique ingredients such as apricot halves and almonds. Apricot halves can be found in the canned fruit section of most supermarkets. If fresh apricots are not in season or hard to find, canned apricots are a great alternative. Almonds, used for garnish, can be located in the nuts and seeds aisle. They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.

Ingredients for Apricot Almond Chicken Recipe

Chicken breast halves: The protein of the recipe, it's tender and takes on the flavors it's cooked with.

Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Apricot halves: These give the dish its distinct sweet and tart flavor.

Orange juice: Adds a tangy citrus note to the sauce.

Soy sauce: Infuses the dish with a savory, umami taste.

Sesame oil: Gives the dish a subtle nutty flavor.

All purpose flour: Used to coat the chicken and also to thicken the sauce.

Cayenne pepper: Adds a kick of heat to balance the sweetness.

Vegetable oil: Used to cook the chicken and sauté the shallot and garlic.

Shallot: Brings a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor.

Garlic: Infuses the dish with its distinct, robust flavor.

Almonds: Adds a wonderful crunch and enhances the nutty flavor.

One reader, Guthrey Mcneely says:

This apricot almond chicken recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tender chicken, sweet apricots, and crunchy almonds creates a burst of flavors in every bite. The sauce is simply divine, and the dish is easy to prepare. It's a definite winner for any dinner party!

Guthrey Mcneely

How To Make Apricot Almond Chicken

Enjoy succulent and juicy bites of this apricot almond chicken, packed with tart apricots, crunchy almonds, and zesty orange, for a tasty meal!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4chicken breast halved,skinless boneless
salt,to taste
16ozapricot halves,(1 can)
½cuporange juice
2tbsplite soy sauce
1tspsesame oil
¾cupall purpose flour
½tspcayenne pepper
vegetable oil
1shallot,minced
1garlic clove,minced
2tbspall purpose flour
almonds,for garnish, sliced

Instructions

Place the chicken between plastic wrap, and gently pound with a mallet to ½-inch thickness. Season with salt, and set aside.
Strain the apricot liquid into a small bowl and stir in orange juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Coarsely chop the apricots and set them aside.
Place the flour and cayenne pepper in a resealable plastic bag, and shake to combine. Add the chicken breasts in batches, tossing to coat and dusting off excess flour.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken, turning once, until no longer pink in center and juices run clear. Transfer to a paper towel-lined dish.
Cook and stir the shallot and garlic in the same pan until translucent, being careful not to burn the garlic and adding more oil if needed.
Stir in the orange juice mixture and chopped apricots. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of simmering liquid and 2 tablespoons of flour until well blended and no lumps of flour remain.
Slowly stir back into the skillet to thicken, repeating if necessary for desired consistency. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning with sauce, until warmed through.
Garnish with almonds, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 538.11kcal
Fat: 23.10g
Saturated Fat: 5.21g
Trans Fat: 0.22g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.99g
Carbohydrates: 39.95g
Fiber: 3.67g
Sugar: 14.39g
Protein: 41.99g
Cholesterol: 111.36mg
Sodium: 871.47mg
Calcium: 50.99mg
Potassium: 849.75mg
Iron: 3.37mg
Vitamin A: 158.40µg
Vitamin C: 28.43mg

Technique Tip for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

When pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, it's important to do so gently to avoid tearing the meat. Using a meat mallet, apply even pressure and make broad, sweeping hits rather than forceful direct hits. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy and tender. Also, when thickening the sauce with flour, make sure to whisk it thoroughly with the simmering liquid before adding it back to the skillet. This will prevent lumps from forming and will result in a smoother, more appetizing sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Apricot Almond Chicken

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken in the flour and cayenne mixture the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Efficient chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop the apricots, shallot, and garlic for the recipe.

One-pot wonder: Use a large skillet to cook the chicken and make the sauce in the same pan to minimize clean-up.

Quick thickening: Use a small bowl to whisk the flour and simmering liquid together for a smooth and quick thickening agent for the sauce.

Streamlined garnish: Toast the almonds in advance and store them in an airtight container for an easy and quick garnish.

Substitute Ingredients For Apricot Almond Chicken Recipe

apricot halves - Substitute with mango slices: Mango has a similar sweet and tangy flavor to apricots, and when cooked, it can provide a similar texture and juiciness to the dish.
orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice offers a sweet and tangy flavor similar to orange juice, and it can add a tropical twist to the dish.
lite soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos have a similar umami flavor to soy sauce and can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies and can be used in the same quantity as regular all-purpose flour.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a hint of tropical flavor to the dish and has a similar high smoke point to vegetable oil, making it suitable for cooking at higher temperatures.
shallot - Substitute with red onion: Red onion can provide a slightly milder flavor compared to shallots and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, providing a similar flavor to the dish.
almonds - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can provide a similar nutty flavor and crunchiness to the dish, making them a suitable substitute for almonds.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation

Elevate the dish with a stunning presentation: When plating the apricot almond chicken, consider using a large, white, round plate to create a clean and elegant backdrop for the dish. The contrast of the vibrant apricots and golden chicken against the white plate will make the colors pop and the dish visually appealing.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a reduction of the apricot and orange juice to create a beautiful, artistic drizzle on the plate. This will not only add a burst of flavor but also elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place the almonds on top of the chicken, ensuring they are evenly distributed and add a touch of sophistication to the dish. The almonds will provide a delightful crunch and a visual element that adds interest to the plate.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe. This will create a sense of balance and harmony, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to shine.
Use complementary side dishes: Consider serving the apricot almond chicken with a side of wild rice pilaf and steamed asparagus. The combination of colors and textures will create a visually stunning and well-rounded culinary experience.

Essential Kitchen Gear for Crafting This Dish

Mallet: A kitchen tool with a heavy head used for pounding or tenderizing meat.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Resealable plastic bag: A plastic bag with a seal that can be opened and closed multiple times.
Paper towel: An absorbent towel used for drying or cleaning up spills.
Small bowl: A small-sized bowl used for mixing or holding small amounts of ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together or incorporating air into a mixture.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Apricot Almond Chicken

Allow the apricot almond chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of excess moisture and help maintain the quality of the dish.
For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
To freeze the apricot almond chicken for longer storage:
- Divide the cooled chicken and sauce into individual serving-sized portions.
- Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
When ready to enjoy the frozen apricot almond chicken:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat the thawed chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen chicken directly in the microwave, stirring every 1-2 minutes to ensure even heating. Be sure to use a microwave-safe container and add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the sauce from drying out.
If you have leftover almonds used for garnish, store them separately in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch. Add them to the reheated chicken just before serving.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover apricot almond chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it is heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy.
For a quick and easy reheating option, use your microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
If you have leftover apricot sauce, you can reheat it separately in a small saucepan on the stovetop. Heat the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through. If the sauce has thickened, you can add a small amount of orange juice or water to thin it out.
For a tasty twist, slice the leftover chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle the warm apricot sauce over the top and sprinkle with toasted almonds for added crunch. This creates a delicious and satisfying salad that makes the most of your leftover apricot almond chicken.

Random Fact about Apricot Almond Chicken

Apricot almond chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of apricots with the crunch of almonds, creating a unique and flavorful meal.

Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this apricot almond chicken recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in your area. While chicken breast and apricots can be reasonably priced, the cost of almonds and orange juice may vary. Considering the overall cost, including the protein, fruits, and pantry staples, this recipe can be moderately cost-effective. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. Rating: 8/10.

Is This Dish Nutritious or Indulgent?

This apricot almond chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it uses skinless, boneless chicken breast, which is a lean protein source. The inclusion of apricots and orange juice provides some vitamins and minerals. The use of sesame oil and almonds adds healthy fats to the dish.

However, there are some areas of concern. The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber. Frying the chicken in vegetable oil adds unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats. The soy sauce, while lite, still contributes to the dish's sodium content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Instead of frying the chicken, try baking or grilling it to reduce the amount of oil needed
Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on the dish's salt content
Increase the amount of apricots and add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to boost the recipe's nutritional value
Serve the chicken with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a complete, balanced meal

By making these adjustments, you can transform this apricot almond chicken into a more nutritious and wholesome dish without compromising on flavor. Experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods to find the perfect balance that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Editor's Opinion: A Flavorful and Unique Chicken Recipe

The apricot almond chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The use of apricots and orange juice adds a bright and tangy element to the dish, while the almonds provide a satisfying crunch. The cooking method ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy, and the sauce brings everything together beautifully. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and well-balanced meal that is sure to impress your guests.

Enhance Your Apricot Almond Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, seasoned with herbs and olive oil.

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread, brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoyed This Dish

Spicy Mango Salsa Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a spicy mango salsa for a burst of tropical flavor.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: Coat the salmon in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze for a delicious and easy dinner option.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Create a rich and creamy mushroom risotto using arborio rice and a variety of mushrooms for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for a Complete Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy goodness of this spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips for the ultimate appetizer experience. The perfect combination of cheesy, savory, and satisfying flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Apricot Almond Chicken Recipe:

This apricot almond chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, creating a memorable dining experience. The use of fresh ingredients such as apricots and almonds ensures a rich and vibrant taste. The careful instructions and attention to detail in the cooking process guarantee a delicious and satisfying outcome. With its balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is a testament to culinary expertise and promises to impress even the most discerning palates.

Share your thoughts on the Apricot Almond Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss any variations or serving suggestions you might have!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh apricots instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh apricots instead of canned ones. Simply pit and chop the fresh apricots and use them in place of the canned ones in the recipe. Just keep in mind that the sweetness of fresh apricots may vary, so you might need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe accordingly.

Can I substitute the almonds with another type of nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute the almonds with other nuts such as cashews, walnuts, or pecans, depending on your preference. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to your liking and consider the flavor profile of the nut you choose.

Is there a gluten-free alternative to the all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for the regular all-purpose flour. This will help thicken the sauce and coat the chicken in a similar way without compromising the dish's gluten-free status.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apricot almond chicken ahead of time. You can bread and pound the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. The sauce can also be made ahead and reheated when needed. However, it's best to cook the chicken just before serving to maintain its optimal texture.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the flour mixture or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste preferences.