Sticky Apricot Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Get ready for a crowd-pleasing dinner that brings a punch of flavor and comfort in every bite! Sticky Apricot Chicken and Broccoli is the weeknight hero you never knew you needed—juicy pieces of golden chicken tossed in a sweet, tangy, sticky apricot glaze, paired with perfectly roasted broccoli, and served over fragrant brown jasmine rice. It’s simple enough for busy nights but delivers that special something that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish shines because each ingredient pulls its weight—there’s nothing fancy, but when these elements combine, magic really happens! They’re mostly pantry and fridge staples that layer together to create that sticky, sweet-and-savory harmony we crave. Let’s peek at what you’ll need and why they matter:

• Broccoli: Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and gives the florets gorgeous caramelized edges—a must for contrast!
• Olive oil: Used for both roasting and sautéing, it gives everything a rich, silky finish.
• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper: That simple duo wakes up all the other flavors.
• Chicken breasts: Lean and tender, they’re a perfect canvas for that irresistible sticky sauce.
• Garlic powder: Adds subtle savory depth to the chicken—don’t skip it!
• All-purpose flour: Lightly coats the chicken so it browns up beautifully and helps the glaze stick.
• Apricot jam or preserves: The star of the show! It’s what makes this chicken oh-so-sticky and bursting with flavor.
• Fresh garlic: Minced and mixed into the glaze for aromatic warmth.
• Soy sauce: Balances the sweetness of the jam with umami and saltiness.
• Brown sugar: Deepens the caramel notes in the sticky glaze.
• Chopped chives: Sprinkled at the end for a pop of color and gentle oniony finish.
• Brown jasmine rice: Nutty and aromatic; the perfect base to soak up all that extra sauce.

Variations

Once you fall in love with Sticky Apricot Chicken and Broccoli (and you will!), you’ll want to make it again and again—so why not change it up? Here are just a few easy twists to match your pantry or dietary needs.

• Swap the Protein: Try boneless skinless thighs for richer flavor, or go vegetarian with tofu—just crisp it up the same way as chicken!
• Different Veggies: Not a broccoli fan or want to add more color? Use cauliflower, snow peas, or a bell pepper medley for a gorgeous veggie rainbow.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or even cornstarch to keep things safe and just as tasty.
• Heat Things Up: Add a squeeze of sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze if you like a little sweet fire.

How to Make Sticky Apricot Chicken and Broccoli

Step 1: Roast the Broccoli

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Spread the broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle generously with olive oil, and season with salt and plenty of cracked black pepper. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, until you get those irresistible crispy edges and golden bits—don’t be afraid of a little char!

Step 2: Prepare and Coat the Chicken

While the broccoli’s roasting, toss your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle with flour and toss again until every piece has a nice, light coating—this is your secret to crispier, sauce-grabbing chicken!

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then spread the floured chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed until browned and golden—about 5 to 6 minutes per side. Resist the urge to stir too much; that’s how you get that lovely sear.

Step 4: Make the Sticky Apricot Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together the apricot jam, minced garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar. When the chicken’s golden, pour in your sticky sauce and stir to coat. Simmer everything together for a few minutes, letting the glaze bubble and thicken into a glossy masterpiece.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Add your roasted broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat (or serve it on the side if you prefer). Sprinkle with fresh chives for a burst of color and serve all that sticky apricot goodness over a bed of warm brown jasmine rice. You did it!

How to Serve Sticky Apricot Chicken and Broccoli

Garnishes

Chopped fresh chives add a burst of green and mellow onion flavor, making every plate look restaurant-worthy. If you want an extra bit of crunch and beauty, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds just before serving.

Side Dishes

Brown jasmine rice is my absolute favorite with Sticky Apricot Chicken and Broccoli because it soaks up the sauce and adds nutty balance, but you could swap in white rice, quinoa, or even ramen noodles. A crisp cucumber salad or quick Asian slaw with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to add cool contrast to the saucy chicken, too!

Creative Ways to Present

Present the chicken and broccoli family-style in a big serving platter for easy weeknight sharing, or make impressive rice bowls with layers of rice, chicken, broccoli, and all the garnishes for a more contemporary feel. If you’re entertaining, skewer the glazed chicken pieces on toothpicks for a cute party appetizer twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep Sticky Apricot Chicken and Broccoli fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—just be sure to keep the rice separate so it doesn’t get too soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze the glazed chicken and broccoli (leave the rice out) in a sealed freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken and broccoli gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce needs loosening up. The microwave works for individual portions too—cover and use medium power to keep the meat tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a new weeknight staple that’s as easy as it is irresistible, give Sticky Apricot Chicken and Broccoli a go! It’s the kind of meal that brings people running to the table—and you’re going to love how simple it is to pull together. Enjoy every sticky, sweet-and-savory bite!

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