Chicken with Apricots and Ginger

Name: Chicken with Apricots and Ginger
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 inch fresh ginger (peeled and minced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup chicken broth; 1/3 cup apricot preserves; 6 pieces fresh apricots (halved and pitted); 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water); to taste salt and pepper

60 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

A delightful blend of juicy chicken, sweet apricots, and zesty ginger in a savoury sauce.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Chicken with Apricots and Ginger is a flavourful dish that combines the sweetness of apricots with the spicy zing of ginger, creating a perfect harmony of tastes. This dish is rooted in French cuisine but has become a beloved part of Canadian culinary traditions. The succulent chicken, combined with a rich sauce, makes it a comforting meal that is both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.

Pro tip: Ensure the skin is dry for a crispier finish.

Brown the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin side down, and brown for about 5-7 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.

Sauté aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add ginger and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Pro tip: Avoid burning the garlic to prevent bitterness.

Simmer the sauce

Add chicken broth, apricot preserves, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Stir to combine, then return chicken to the skillet, skin side up. Bring to a simmer.

Pro tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for extra flavour.

Cook the chicken

Cover and cook for about 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F / 74°C when probed in the thickest part).

Pro tip: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safety.

Finish with apricots

Add fresh apricots and cornstarch mixture to the skillet. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and apricots are tender.

Pro tip: Gently stir to avoid breaking the apricots.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh ginger for the best flavour impact.
Choose ripe but firm apricots for a balance of sweetness and texture.
For a deeper flavour, marinate the chicken overnight.
Ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main ingredient in poulet aux abricots?

The main ingredient is chicken, complemented by apricots and ginger.

What temperature should chicken be cooked to?

Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C.

Can I use dried apricots in this recipe?

Yes, but soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before using to soften.

How long does it take to cook poulet aux abricots?

The total cooking time is about 45 minutes.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken with Apricots and Ginger alongside steamed rice or couscous to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the dish's fruity notes. To store leftovers, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain the chicken's tenderness.