Some recipes just have a way of stealing the show, and curried apricot chicken sosaties did exactly that in my home. One weekend, I decided to give this flavorful dish a try, and it turned out to be a hit with my family. The combination of sweet, tangy apricots and the warm spice of curry was just the right balance to turn an ordinary evening into something truly special. If you’re looking for an easy curried apricot chicken sosaties recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds, this is it. It’s simple, flavorful, and bound to become a family favorite in your home, too!

What Makes My Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties Recipe Unique?

Curried apricot chicken sosaties are a South African-inspired recipe featuring skewers of tender, marinated chicken paired with dried apricots and bell peppers. The curry marinade infuses the chicken with rich, deep flavors, while the apricots add a burst of sweetness. What sets my version apart is the addition of coconut milk to the marinade, which gives the chicken an extra layer of creamy richness, balancing the spices beautifully. Plus, I use fresh herbs and a hint of lemon zest for a bright finish, making every bite a mix of savory, sweet, and tangy goodness. This Cape Malay sosaties recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bring the flavors of African foods into their kitchen.

Ingredients List For Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties Recipe

500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup dried apricots (a must in any good apricot recipes)
1 large red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 large yellow bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 small red onion (cut into wedges)
3 tablespoons curry powder (use a mild or medium curry, depending on your preference)
1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for the best flavor)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Lemon zest (for garnish)
Wooden kebab skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)

Substitutions and Variations

If you need to make a few changes to suit your preferences or dietary needs, don’t worry—this recipe is very flexible.

Chicken substitutions: If you don’t have chicken thighs, you can easily swap them for boneless chicken breasts. For a vegetarian twist, use firm tofu or paneer in place of the chicken. For another twist, you can even try a beef sosaties recipe using similar marinade ingredients.
Dried apricots: If apricots aren’t your thing, dried peaches or dates can be used as an alternative. Both offer that sweet, chewy texture that complements the curry spice.
Yogurt marinade: If you prefer a yogurt-based marinade, you can replace the coconut milk with plain yogurt for a tangier flavor. A yogurt marinade is a great option for those who want to try a more traditional sosatie marinade.
Vegetable options: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms can be added to the kebab skewers for more variety.

Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the curry powder, coconut milk (or yogurt marinade if you’re using it), olive oil, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, honey, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined so that the flavors meld.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and let the marinated chicken sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor. This is the key to a truly flavorful chicken sosaties recipe South Africa is known for.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Once the chicken has marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked kebab skewers, alternating with dried apricots, bell peppers, and red onion wedges. This layering ensures a delicious bite of everything in each mouthful.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil them in the oven. This method gives you that authentic BBQ chicken flavor without needing an outdoor grill.

Step 5: Grill the Sosaties

Place the skewers on the grill, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the outside. Be sure to turn them occasionally to cook evenly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

Skipping the marinade time: One of the most important aspects of this dish is allowing the chicken to marinate. Don’t rush this step! The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.
Using high heat: Grilling the sosaties over high heat might burn the outside before the chicken is fully cooked. Stick to medium-high heat for even cooking.
Not soaking the skewers: Always soak the wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Overcrowding the skewers: Don’t pack too many ingredients onto each skewer. Leave some space so the chicken and vegetables can cook evenly.

Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties Serving and Presentation Tips

To elevate your curried apricot chicken sosaties recipe, serve the sosaties on a rustic wooden platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lemon wedges for a bright and fresh presentation. You can also scatter a few extra dried apricots around the platter for added color and texture. Serve it with a crisp leafy salad on the side to balance out the rich flavors of the sosatie sauce.

How to Serve Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

These chicken sosaties are perfect served with a side of fluffy basmati rice or couscous. You can also pair them with a light cucumber yogurt salad or naan bread to complete the meal. They work wonderfully as a main dish for a summer barbecue or as part of a larger dinner spread. If you’re serving them at a Kos or other gathering, they’ll surely impress. Whether you enjoy them with friends or family, this dish always brings a festive feel to the table.

Extra Recipe Tips For Curried Apricot Chicken Sosaties

Prep ahead: You can assemble the skewers up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge. This will save time when you’re ready to cook.
Leftovers: If you have leftovers, simply remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken (before grilling) for up to 3 months. Just defrost, assemble the skewers, and cook as directed.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or broil the sosaties in the oven. Just watch them closely to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes! For a spicier version, add extra curry powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
Fresh apricots can be used, but they will cook much faster and may not provide the same chewy texture as dried apricots.

Final Thoughts

Curried apricot chicken sosaties are a delightful dish that brings together the warmth of curry spices and the sweetness of dried apricots in every bite. It’s a recipe that’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking for something special to share with your family, this dish is perfect for creating memorable moments. So go ahead and try the best curried apricot chicken sosaties recipe—you won’t regret it!