Let’s go retro, people! This old-school dish was a hit in the ‘70s, and we’ve brought it back with this quick and easy version that’s a breeze to prepare.

What you need to know before you start

To make this recipe at home, you will need a heavy-based casserole with a lid. Using this type of pot with help to evenly distribute and retain heat for consistent results. You will also need a large zip-lock bag to quickly and efficiently coat the chicken in flour and seasonings. You can also use a bowl, if you prefer.

Set aside at least one hour to let the chicken simmer away uninterrupted in the pot to become tender, juicy and starting to just fall apart. The whole dish will take roughly one hour 45 minutes from start to finish.  

Why is this the best apricot chicken recipe?

Our classic apricot chicken recipe stays true to the authentic recipe, using juicy chicken thigh fillets, apricot nectar, French onion soup mix and Moroccan seasonings. With little hands-on cooking time involved, it’s the perfect dish to prepare when you’re craving something warming and delicious for the whole family. We take the time to brown the chicken all over to begin with, which is essential for bringing that depth of flavour and rich colour to the finished product. The dish is also cooked in the one pot to allow the flavours to deepen and develop – which also means less washing up.  

Can you make apricot chicken in the slow cooker?

Prefer to use the slow cooker? You can replicate this apricot chicken recipe in your crockpot instead. Replace the casserole with a slow-cooker and cook on low for 3 hours 30 minutes. You’ll need to start off by browning your chicken in a frypan if your cooker doesn’t have a browning setting. You’ll also need less liquid. Reduce the apricot nectar to ½ cup (125ml) and the water to ½ cup (125ml). Follow along from step 5 and enjoy.

What ingredients you’ll need 

Chicken thigh fillets: Whole chicken thighs are used as they’re more flavourful and have a higher fat content compared to other cuts like breast. This also makes them more tender. 

Plain flour: Flour is used to coat the chicken thighs before browning. This seals in the flavours and prevents the chicken from becoming tough, and also helps to thicken the sauce.

Extra virgin olive oil: The herbaceous aroma of extra virgin olive oil adds depth of flavour and helps to brown the meat so the chicken forms a caramelised crust and stays tender and juicy inside.  aids in creating juicy, succulent meat. 

Onions: The slightly sweet and savoury fragrance of onions builds complexity and complements the flavours of the chicken. 

Moroccan seasoning blend: This blend of paprika, turmeric, capsicum, cumin and other spices adds earthiness and warmth for a deeply savoury flavour.  You can find it at supermarkets.

Garlic cloves: Crushing the garlic releases a pungent aroma for a punchier dish. 

French onion soup mix: Dried spices including onion, parsley, paprika and black pepper combine to complement the sweetness of the apricots while building an umami-rich flavour base.

Apricot nectar: This nectar provides the distinct sweet apricot sharpness to the sauce. 

Steamed rice: This optional side acts as a neutral base to soak up all the delicious flavours from the apricot chicken and sauce. 

Broccolini: The freshness from steamed broccolini brightens up the dish while adding in your serve of greens for the day.

Flat-leaf parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of visual greenery and a clean and peppery taste. 

How to make apricot chicken

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s cooked all in the one pot for total ease. The dish comes together by browning the meat in batches before it’s returned to the casserole with the onions, garlic, French onion soup mix, apricot nectar and water. 

Let the mixture simmer for roughly an hour for the sauce to thicken and the chicken to become tender. You’ll know the dish is ready when the chicken is almost falling apart. 

How to store leftover apricot chicken

Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for two to three days. You can also store it in the freezer for roughly three months. 

What is the best way to serve apricot chicken?

We recommend serving this with a side of steamed rice, broccolini and a sprinkle of fresh flat-leaf parsley. You can also choose couscous, fresh pasta and mashed potatoes. Enjoy it for a deliciously hearty family dinner in the cooler months. 

If you love our simple apricot chicken recipe, try this 

Love the sweet and savoury flavour combination? We have a wide range of easy and delicious dinner ideas that hero the duality of these complex flavours:

• Mango chicken
• Grilled prawns with tropical fruit salsa
• Tomato and peach salad with nahm jim