Apricot Salsa Chicken Recipe

Spice up your weeknight dinner with this fiery Apricot Salsa Chicken! Inspired by Taste of Home's 2009 cookbook, this recipe takes the classic salsa chicken to the next level with a delicious kick. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a vibrant apricot-salsa sauce, creating a flavor explosion that's perfect served over rice. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 916.8 kcal
Protein 75g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Apricot Salsa Chicken

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Apricot Salsa Chicken

  • All Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • Canola Oil
  • 1 15-ounce jar of your favorite salsa (medium or hot recommended)
  • Apricot Preserves
  • Apricot Nectar
  • Brown Rice

How to Make Apricot Salsa Chicken

  1. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
  2. Add chicken pieces to the bag, 2-3 at a time. Seal the bag and shake to coat the chicken evenly with the flour mixture.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Drain excess oil from the skillet.
  5. Return the skillet to medium heat. Stir in the salsa, apricot preserves, and apricot nectar. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Serve the Apricot Salsa Chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

38 g

Sugar

164g

Fat

9g

Carbs

54g