There’s something magical about the combination of savory and sweet that makes a dish memorable, and my Healthy Apricot Chicken recipe is the perfect testament to this culinary truism. This dish is designed for the health-conscious food lover who doesn’t want to compromise on flavor. With its tender chicken, the subtle sweetness of apricots, and a hint of warm spices, it’s a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether cooking for a family dinner or prepping for a week of wholesome lunches, this recipe will satisfy you. It’s a dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland – it can be a vibrant and delightful experience for the palate.
Recipe: Healthy Apricot Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir ginger, cumin, and cinnamon in the ground, and cook for another minute until the spices are well combined.
- Add the chopped apricots and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the apricot mixture. Cover and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the apricots are soft.
- If the sauce is too thin, remove the chicken and simmer it for a few minutes to reduce it.
- Serve the chicken with a generous spoonful of the apricot sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
How to Prepare:
To ensure your Healthy Apricot Chicken turns out perfectly, start by organizing all your ingredients and prepping your apricots and aromatics. Make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness for consistent cooking. When cooking the chicken, please don’t move it around too much in the pan; allowing it to sear well will give it a great flavor. As for the sauce, be patient and let it simmer to melt the flavors and thicken slightly. These little steps make a big difference in the final dish.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 per serving
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 320 | Total Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 125mg | Total Carbohydrates: 29g | Dietary Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 20g | Protein: 27g
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Plate (for resting chicken)
- Lid for skillet or aluminum foil
Storing Leftovers:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm throughout. The apricot sauce may thicken upon cooling, so adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating can help to maintain a saucy consistency.
Food or Drink Pairings:
This Healthy Apricot Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of quinoa or brown rice, which soaks up the delicious apricot sauce. For a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or a green salad. As for drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir perfectly complements the dish’s sweet and savory notes.
This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a balanced meal full of flavor. The apricots provide a natural sweetness, while the spices add depth, making each bite a lovely experience. Give this Healthy Apricot Chicken a try; it might just become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
