Barbecue Apricot Chicken Recipe

It’s Ava here, ready to share a recipe that’s become a staple in our household – Barbecue Apricot Chicken. As a busy mom of two who’s always looking for ways to jazz up our dinner routine, I can’t tell you how many times this dish has saved the day.

It’s the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, with a smoky barbecue kick that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Trust me, once you try this apricot glazed chicken, you’ll be wondering where it’s been all your life!

What is Barbecue Apricot Chicken?

Barbecue Apricot Chicken is a mouthwatering twist on classic barbecue chicken that’ll take your backyard cookouts to the next level. Picture this: juicy chicken thighs, lovingly coated in a sticky-sweet glaze that marries the fruity goodness of apricots with the bold flavors of barbecue sauce.

It’s like summer decided to throw a party on your plate! This dish is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a hint of smokiness that’ll transport you straight to BBQ heaven.

Ingredients List For Barbecue Apricot Chicken Recipe

Alright, let’s gather our troops! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleaser:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
• 1 cup apricot preserves
• 1/2 cup your favorite barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

Let’s talk about making this recipe work for you! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Chicken cuts: While I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness, you can totally use chicken breasts or drumsticks if that’s more your style.
• Fruit swap: No apricot preserves? No problem! Try peach or mango preserves for a delicious twist on the glaze.
• Sweetener options: If honey isn’t your thing, brown sugar or maple syrup work great too.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Dietary needs: For a gluten-free version, just make sure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

Remember, cooking is all about making it your own, so feel free to experiment!

Barbecue Apricot Chicken Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes that crispy skin we all love. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the apricot preserves, barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and smoked paprika. This magical concoction is what’s going to transform your chicken into something extraordinary!

Step 3: Preheat and Oil the Grill

Fire up that grill! We’re aiming for medium-high heat here. Once it’s hot, brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. If you’re using a grill pan or skillet, heat it over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place your seasoned chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until you see those beautiful grill marks forming. Flip them over and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side.

Step 5: Baste and Continue Cooking

Now comes the fun part! Start brushing your chicken with the apricot barbecue glaze. Turn and baste every 2-3 minutes, letting that glaze caramelize and work its magic. Keep this up for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once your chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps lock in all those tasty juices. Garnish with some fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and serve it up!

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Barbecue Apricot Chicken

1. Don’t rush the process! Cooking over too high heat can burn the glaze and leave the inside undercooked.
2. Avoid basting too early. Wait until the chicken is partially cooked before adding the glaze to prevent burning.
3. Don’t forget to oil your grill grates. Nobody wants their beautiful chicken sticking to the grill!
4. Resist the urge to constantly flip the chicken. Let it do its thing and develop those gorgeous grill marks.
5. Don’t skip the resting period. It makes a world of difference in juiciness!

Barbecue Apricot Chicken Serving and Presentation Tips

Want to make your Barbecue Apricot Chicken look as good as it tastes? Try these ideas:

1. Serve it on a large wooden board for a rustic, family-style look.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
3. Add some char-grilled lemon halves on the side for an extra punch of flavor and visual appeal.
4. Sprinkle some sesame seeds over the glazed chicken for a bit of texture and elegance.
5. Use a variety of chicken cuts for an interesting presentation if serving a crowd.

How to Serve Barbecue Apricot Chicken

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with so many sides! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

1. With a crisp, tangy coleslaw to balance the sweetness of the chicken.
2. Alongside some grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn on the cob.
3. Over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce.
4. With a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a lighter meal.
5. Paired with sweet potato fries for a fun, family-friendly dinner.

Extra Recipe Tips For Barbecue Apricot Chicken

1. Make-ahead magic: You can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
2. Leftover love: Shred any leftover chicken and use it in sandwiches or wraps the next day.
3. Indoor option: No grill? No problem! You can bake this in the oven at 375°F for about 35-40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes.
4. Freezer-friendly: Freeze uncooked chicken in the marinade for an easy future meal.
5. Spice it up: Add a tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the glaze for an extra flavor kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Boneless chicken works great, just adjust the cooking time as it’ll cook faster than bone-in pieces.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?

A: The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven?

A: Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?

A: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, leftovers will keep for 3-4 days.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: It can be! Just make sure to use a gluten-free barbecue sauce.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, friends – my beloved Barbecue Apricot Chicken recipe! This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings a little sunshine to your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just spicing up a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making memories. So gather your loved ones, fire up that grill, and get ready to create some magic. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, that irresistible apricot glaze, and the smoky char from the grill is simply unbeatable. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be looking for excuses to make it again and again!

So go on, give this Barbecue Apricot Chicken a whirl. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. Happy cooking, and here’s to making every meal a special moment!