Welcome to your ultimate guide for making delicious Barbecue Apricot Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy apricot barbecue sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for grilling or baking. Follow this detailed recipe to create your own perfect Barbecue Apricot Chicken at home.
What is Barbecue Apricot Chicken?
Barbecue Apricot Chicken is a delightful dish where chicken is marinated and basted in a sweet and tangy apricot barbecue sauce. The combination of savory chicken and the fruity, caramelized glaze makes this dish a favorite for summer cookouts, family dinners, or any time you want a flavorful meal.
Ingredients List for Barbecue Apricot Chicken
Gather these essential ingredients before you begin:
For the Chicken:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: 4 pieces, bone-in or boneless, skin-on for extra flavor
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
For the Apricot Barbecue Sauce:
- Apricot Jam: ½ cup
- Barbecue Sauce: ½ cup
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional for heat)
Substitutions and Variations
Customize your Barbecue Apricot Chicken with these ideas:
- Chicken Alternatives: Use drumsticks, wings, or even a whole chicken for a different presentation.
- Jam Alternatives: Substitute apricot jam with peach or pineapple jam for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and smoked paprika to suit your heat preference.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating this dish is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s how to do it:
How to Make Barbecue Apricot Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it into the chicken to coat evenly.
- Make the Apricot Barbecue Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the apricot jam, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the apricot barbecue sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven:
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Grill Method: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with the remaining apricot barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a caramelized glaze.
- Oven Method: Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with the remaining apricot barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Barbecue Apricot Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Not Marinating Long Enough: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate. Aim for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Not Preheating the Grill or Oven: A properly preheated grill or oven ensures even cooking and a nice sear.
- Skipping the Basting: Basting with sauce during the last few minutes of cooking adds a delicious caramelized glaze.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Now that your Barbecue Apricot Chicken is ready, here are some ideas for serving and presenting it beautifully.
How to Serve Barbecue Apricot Chicken
This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Main Course: Serve with rice, quinoa, or couscous and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Picnic Style: Pair with coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread for a casual, outdoor meal.
- Family Dinner: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or grilled corn on the cob for a hearty family dinner.
Presentation Ideas for Barbecue Apricot Chicken
Make your homemade chicken even more special with these presentation ideas:
- Decorative Platter: Arrange the chicken on a decorative platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
- Individual Servings: Plate each piece of chicken individually with sides neatly arranged for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Buffet Style: Lay out the chicken on a large serving board with a variety of sides and sauces for a buffet-style meal.
Barbecue Apricot Chicken Recipe Tips
Here are some final tips to ensure your dish is a success:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the chicken while it cooks to prevent overcooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the barbecue sauce before marinating and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to retain its juices and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the apricot barbecue sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use a different type of jam?
A: Yes, you can substitute apricot jam with peach or pineapple jam for a different flavor.
Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Conclusion
Barbecue Apricot Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines tender marinated chicken with a sweet and tangy apricot barbecue sauce. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a festive barbecue. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors and presentations to make this recipe uniquely yours. Enjoy your delicious homemade Barbecue Apricot Chicken!
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Barbecue Apricot Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Savor the taste of summer with this barbecue apricot chicken recipe. Featuring tender chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy apricot glaze, this dish is perfect for grilling or baking. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, it's ideal for family dinners or backyard barbecues.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together apricot preserves, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, or preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely charred. If baking, place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Brush the cooked chicken with the thickened marinade before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure the marinade reaches a boil to kill any bacteria from the raw chicken.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 600mg
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