Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot Recipe

Indulge in a sweet and savory delight with this sticky baked chicken with apricot dish. With the tangy flavor of apricot preserves and the savory touch of sage, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing dinner. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the apricot glaze gives it a lusciously sticky exterior, making each bite a unique blend of flavors. Ideal for a weekend family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

Photos of Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot Recipe

The key ingredient that makes this dish stand out is the apricot preserves. These are sweet, tangy, and slightly tart, which make them the perfect partner for the savory chicken. If you don't usually keep them at home, you can find them in the jam and jelly aisle at the supermarket. The sage is another ingredient to note. It adds a classic, aromatic flavor that balances the sweetness of the apricot. Fresh sage is usually found in the produce section.

Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot Ingredients

Drumsticks: These are the most flavourful part of the chicken and stay juicy even after baking.

Kosher salt: This type of salt has larger grains and gives the chicken a distinct flavor.

Pepper: To add a bit of a spicy kick and balance the sweetness of the apricot.

Sage: A herb with a distinctive aroma that complements the chicken.

Olive oil: Used for marinating the chicken and keeping it moist.

Lemon: Its juice and zest are used to cut through the sweetness and add a tangy flavor.

Apricot preserves: The star of the dish, they give the chicken its sweet and sticky quality.

Worcestershire sauce: A complex sauce that adds depth to the dish.

Garlic: Adds a savory note that goes well with the sweet and tangy apricot.

One reader, Diego Rohrer says:

This sticky baked chicken with apricot recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory and sweet flavors is simply divine. The chicken turns out juicy and tender, and the sticky apricot glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and a new favorite in my household!

Diego Rohrer

Mastering the Art of Sticky Baked Chicken

How to marinate the chicken: Gently massage the chicken legs with salt and pepper, then add the sage and oil, and toss to coat. Marinate in the fridge for 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to infuse.

How to prepare the sticky jam: In a small bowl, mix the lemon zest, lemon juice, apricot preserves, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic until well combined. This will create a sticky and flavorful glaze for the chicken.

How to bake the chicken: Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish, brush the sticky jam all over the chicken, and then bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the juices run clear when pricked. This will result in tender, sticky baked chicken with a delicious apricot glaze.

How To Make Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot

For this baked chicken, the meat is marinated with sage, brushed with apricot and lemon juice blend, then baked into a sweet and flavorful dish.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Marinate Time: 6 hours

Total: 6 hours 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8drumsticks,skinless
1tspkosher salt
fresh cracked pepper,to taste
5sprigsfresh sage
½tbspolive oil
1lemon
⅓cupapricot preserves
1tspWorcestershire sauce
1large garlic,minced

Instructions

In a large bowl, gently massage the chicken legs with salt and pepper. Add the sage and oil and toss. Marinate in the fridge for 6 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Grate the lemon zest from the lemon then squeeze the juice. Add the zest and juice to a small bowl and mix in the preserves, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic.
Pluck out the sage from the chicken and discard. Brush the sticky jam all over the chicken then place them in a baking dish, leaving plenty of breathing room.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the juices run clear when pricked. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 558.19kcal
Fat: 27.60g
Saturated Fat: 7.51g
Trans Fat: 0.13g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.32g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.62g
Carbohydrates: 28.28g
Fiber: 4.92g
Sugar: 12.33g
Protein: 50.08g
Cholesterol: 244.72mg
Sodium: 764.56mg
Calcium: 215.36mg
Potassium: 763.56mg
Iron: 5.23mg
Vitamin A: 69.89µg
Vitamin C: 15.80mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Sticky Baked Chicken

When marinating the chicken drumsticks, ensure they are fully coated with the mixture for maximum flavor absorption. Also, turning them occasionally during the marinating process can help distribute the flavors evenly. For the best results, use a zip-top bag for marinating. This allows for easy turning and ensures that the chicken is evenly exposed to the marinade.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking. This will allow the flavors to develop and the meat to tenderize, resulting in a more delicious dish.

One-pan wonder: Use a large baking dish to cook the chicken. This way, you can bake all the drumsticks at once, saving time and effort on cleaning up.

Multitask: While the chicken is marinating or baking, use that time to prepare side dishes or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Easy cleanup: Line the baking dish with parchment paper before placing the chicken in it. This will make cleaning up a breeze and save time on scrubbing the dish later.

Organized workspace: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients and tools are organized and easily accessible. This will help you work more efficiently and save time during the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot Recipe

kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of saltiness and flavor to the dish.
fresh cracked pepper - Substitute with ground black pepper: Ground black pepper can be used as a substitute for fresh cracked pepper, providing a similar flavor and aroma.
fresh sage - Substitute with dried sage: Dried sage can be used as a substitute for fresh sage, but use it in smaller quantities as it is more concentrated in flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime can be used as a substitute for lemon to provide a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the dish.
apricot preserves - Substitute with peach preserves: Peach preserves can be used as a substitute for apricot preserves, providing a similar fruity sweetness to the dish.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce to add depth of flavor and umami to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic to provide a milder, sweeter flavor to the dish.

Plating Ideas for a Delightful Presentation

Elevate the drumsticks: Arrange the sticky baked chicken drumsticks on a pristine white platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and positioned with precision.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh sage leaves over the chicken, adding a pop of vibrant green color and a hint of earthy aroma.
Drizzle with lemon-infused apricot glaze: Carefully drizzle the luscious lemon and apricot glaze over the chicken, creating an enticing sheen that glistens under the light.
Accompany with citrus wedges: Artfully place lemon wedges around the platter, enhancing the visual appeal and offering a zesty burst of flavor to complement the dish.
Serve on elegant dinnerware: Present the sticky baked chicken on exquisite porcelain plates, elevating the dining experience and showcasing the dish as a culinary masterpiece.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Sticky Baked Chicken

Large bowl: A large bowl is essential for marinating the chicken and tossing it with the seasoning and oil.
Baking dish: A baking dish is needed to bake the chicken in the oven.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used to mix the apricot preserves, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic for the sticky glaze.
Brush: A brush is used to evenly coat the chicken with the sticky apricot glaze before baking.
Grater: A grater is used to zest the lemon for the sticky glaze.
Juicer: A juicer is used to extract the lemon juice for the sticky glaze.
Knife: A knife is used for various tasks such as trimming the chicken, mincing garlic, and slicing the lemon.
Oven: An oven is used to bake the chicken until it is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
Refrigerator: The refrigerator is used to marinate the chicken for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Preserving the Goodness: Storing and Freezing Sticky Baked Chicken

Let the chicken cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the chicken soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the chicken. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen chicken will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, place the thawed chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the skin may not be as crispy.
If you have any leftover apricot sauce, store it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use it as a glaze for other meats or as a spread for sandwiches.

Reheating Tips for Sticky Baked Chicken Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat the chicken in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can use the 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 become rubbery.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover chicken, you can brush it with a fresh layer of apricot preserves mixed with a little garlic and lemon juice. Then, reheat it in the oven or air fryer as described above.
For a tasty sandwich option, shred the leftover chicken and mix it with some mayonnaise, chopped celery, and diced apricots. Serve the chicken salad on a toasted bun or wrap it in a tortilla for a quick and easy lunch.

Interesting Trivia About Sticky Baked Chicken

The sticky baked chicken with apricot recipe is a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors. It's a perfect dish for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Budget-Friendly Sticky Baked Chicken: Is It Economical?

This sticky baked chicken with apricot recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken drumsticks and apricot preserves, are reasonably priced and readily available. The addition of fresh sage and lemon enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is This Sticky Baked Chicken Dish Healthy?

The sticky baked chicken with apricot recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe calls for drumsticks, which are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts of chicken like breast meat.
Apricot preserves contain added sugars, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues when consumed in large quantities.
The recipe doesn't include any vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients, making it a less balanced meal.

However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe:

The use of fresh sage and garlic adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives.
The cooking method of baking is generally healthier than frying or other high-fat cooking techniques.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for skinless chicken breasts instead of drumsticks to reduce the overall fat content.
Replace the apricot preserves with fresh apricots or a sugar-free apricot puree to minimize added sugars.
Incorporate a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density of the meal.
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, like rosemary or thyme, to enhance the flavor profile without relying on sugar or salt.
Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the marinade to further decrease the calorie and fat content.

By making these adjustments, you can transform this sticky baked chicken with apricot recipe into a more nutritious and well-rounded meal that still delivers on taste and satisfaction.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Delectable Chicken Recipe

The combination of savory sage and sweet apricot preserves creates a delightful balance of flavors in this sticky baked chicken recipe. The marinade infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor, while the sticky jam glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The addition of Worcestershire sauce and garlic adds a subtle complexity to the dish. The result is tender, succulent chicken with a sticky, flavorful glaze that is sure to impress. This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table.

Enhance Your Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for soaking up the sticky apricot glaze.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a refreshing and vibrant side to complement the savory chicken.

Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart: A flaky, buttery tart filled with sweet caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese, a delightful contrast to the sticky baked chicken.

Discover Similar Recipes to Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots, it's a comforting meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Salmon: This zesty and flavorful roasted salmon is a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for a summer dinner. The combination of lemon and garlic adds a bright and tangy flavor to the tender salmon fillets.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This tropical-inspired chia pudding is a healthy and satisfying dessert or snack. The sweet mango and creamy coconut milk create a deliciously indulgent treat that's also packed with nutrients.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Sticky Baked Chicken Meal

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Create a creamy and indulgent dip that combines the earthy flavors of spinach and the tanginess of artichokes. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread for a satisfying appetizer.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Prepare savory and flavorful stuffed mushrooms filled with a mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a party or gathering.

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 perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a velvety smooth strawberry cheesecake, topped with a sweet strawberry glaze and fresh sliced strawberries. A decadent and fruity dessert that will leave you wanting more.

Why trust this Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot Recipe:

This recipe guarantees succulent chicken drumsticks coated in a sticky glaze made with apricot preserves and a hint of tangy lemon juice. The marinade infuses the meat with the earthy aroma of fresh sage and a touch of olive oil, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. The meticulous preparation and careful marination process result in tender, juicy chicken that is sure to impress. Trust in the harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, and savor the delightful combination of textures in this delectable baked chicken dish.

Share your thoughts on this Sticky Baked Chicken with Apricot Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster than drumsticks.

Can I substitute apricot preserves with another fruit preserve?

Absolutely! You can substitute apricot preserves with peach, mango, or even orange preserves for a different flavor profile.

Can I marinate the chicken for less than 6 hours?

While marinating the chicken for at least 6 hours will give you the best flavor, if you're short on time, you can marinate for a minimum of 2 hours. Just keep in mind that the longer the marination, the more flavorful the chicken will be.

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh sage?

Yes, you can use dried sage instead of fresh sage, but keep in mind that the flavor intensity may differ. Use about half the amount of dried sage as the recipe calls for fresh.

Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of lemon?

Certainly! You can use orange or lime as a substitute for lemon to give the dish a unique citrus flavor.