Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that combines the tangy sweetness of apricots with savory chicken. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a great choice for any meal.

why you will love this recipe

This recipe stands out because it captures a perfect balance of flavors. The apricot preserves create a tangy-sweet glaze that pairs wonderfully with the rich, juicy chicken thighs. It’s an easy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly dish that feels special and satisfying.

Preparing Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs

To get started on your Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs, gather the following ingredients:

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1/2 cup apricot preserves
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Directions:

In a medium bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and sesame oil until well combined.
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the apricot marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or, for best results, overnight.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Reserve the marinade for later. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the chicken for about 30-35 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy. Brush the reserved marinade over the chicken halfway through cooking.
If you want extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm with your choice of sides like rice or a fresh salad.

how to serve Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs

These delicious chicken thighs can be served as the main dish alongside steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad. The flavorful glaze makes them perfect for family dinners or even casual gatherings. They also work well for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week.

how to store Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs

To store any leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
If you prefer, you can grill the chicken thighs instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
Marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, enhancing the taste.

variations

If you want to tweak the recipe, you can use other fruit preserves like peach or mango for a different flavor profile. You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks, adjusting cooking time as needed.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they usually cook faster than bone-in thighs.

What can I serve with Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs?

These chicken thighs pair well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also add roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour before cooking.

Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs

These Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish combining the tangy sweetness of apricots with savory chicken, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 35

Total Time 1 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 370

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the marinade

1/2 cup apricot preserves
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the chicken

4 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on Can substitute with boneless thighs.
sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Method

Preparation

In a medium bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and sesame oil until well combined.
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the apricot marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or, for best results, overnight.

Cooking

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Reserve the marinade for later. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the chicken for about 30-35 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy. Brush the reserved marinade over the chicken halfway through cooking.
For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

Serve with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. Consider grilling the chicken for a smoky flavor if preferred.