Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful weeknight dinner? Look no further than these Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts! This recipe is not only incredibly simple to make, but it also delivers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The air fryer cooks the chicken to juicy perfection, while the apricot glaze adds a beautiful shine and a burst of fruity sweetness. Prepare to be amazed by how effortlessly delicious this dish is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Quick and Easy:** From prep to plate, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
* **Healthy:** Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying methods, making this a healthier option.
* **Flavorful:** The apricot glaze adds a delicious sweet and savory flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
* **Versatile:** Serve with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **Easy Cleanup:** Air fryers are known for their easy cleanup, making this a hassle-free dinner option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Chicken Breasts:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of the show. Aim for breasts that are about the same size for even cooking.
* **Apricot Preserves:** The base of our flavorful glaze. Choose a high-quality apricot preserve for the best flavor.
* **Soy Sauce:** Adds a savory and umami element to the glaze. Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the saltiness.
* **Dijon Mustard:** Provides a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the apricot preserves.
* **Garlic Powder:** Enhances the overall flavor of the glaze.
* **Onion Powder:** Adds another layer of savory flavor.
* **Paprika:** Adds a touch of smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To season the chicken and glaze.
* **Optional: Red Pepper Flakes:** For a little heat.
* **Optional: Fresh Thyme or Rosemary:** For garnish and added aroma.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Air Fryer:** The heart of this recipe! Any air fryer will work, but cooking times may vary depending on the model.
* **Small Bowl:** To prepare the apricot glaze.
* **Whisk:** To combine the glaze ingredients.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurement.
* **Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
* **Pastry Brush (Optional):** For applying the glaze evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create delicious Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts.

**Step 1: Prepare the Apricot Glaze**

1. In a small bowl, combine the apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add a touch more soy sauce for saltiness or red pepper flakes for heat.

**Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts**

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown better in the air fryer.
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

**Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken**

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook the chicken in batches if your air fryer is small.
3. Air fry for 10 minutes.

**Step 4: Glaze the Chicken**

1. Remove the air fryer basket and carefully brush the tops of the chicken breasts with a generous amount of the apricot glaze.
2. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
3. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, open the air fryer and brush the chicken with more glaze for a richer flavor and a more beautiful sheen.

**Step 5: Rest and Serve**

1. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the air fryer basket and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
2. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer:** Overcrowding the air fryer will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly and browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** The best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast. It should read 165°F (74°C).
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of the chicken breasts. Keep an eye on the chicken and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Be sure to check the internal temperature frequently to avoid overcooking.
* **Let the Chicken Rest:** Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing will result in a more tender and juicy chicken breast.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to customize the apricot glaze to your liking. Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat, a splash of lemon juice for brightness, or a teaspoon of grated ginger for warmth.
* **Use Parchment Paper Liners:** While not necessary, parchment paper liners made for air fryers can make cleanup even easier.
* **Marinate for Extra Flavor:** For even more intense flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the apricot glaze for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, in the refrigerator.
* **Even Chicken Breast Thickness:** Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness for more even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or wild rice are all great options.
* **Quinoa:** A healthy and protein-packed side dish.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad or a more elaborate salad with fruits and vegetables.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** A classic comfort food side dish.
* **Green Beans:** A simple and healthy side dish.
* **Asparagus:** Another quick and healthy vegetable option.
* **Couscous:** A light and fluffy side dish.
* **Garlic Bread:** A classic pairing with chicken dishes.
* **Polenta:** A creamy and flavorful side dish that complements the sweetness of the apricot glaze.

Variations

* **Honey Glazed Chicken:** Substitute honey for the apricot preserves for a similar, but slightly different, flavor profile.
* **Peach Glazed Chicken:** Use peach preserves instead of apricot preserves.
* **Orange Glazed Chicken:** Use orange marmalade for a zesty and bright flavor.
* **Maple Glazed Chicken:** Use maple syrup instead of apricot preserves for a richer, sweeter flavor.
* **Spicy Apricot Glaze:** Add a generous amount of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
* **Garlic Herb Glaze:** Add minced garlic and your favorite herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to the glaze.
* **Lemon Herb Glaze:** Add lemon juice and zest, along with your favorite herbs, to the glaze.

Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

* **Make Ahead:** The apricot glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also marinate the chicken in the glaze for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
* **Storage:** Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the chicken in the microwave, but it may become slightly less crispy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

* Calories: 350-400
* Protein: 40-45g
* Fat: 10-15g
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Recipe Card

text
**Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts**

A quick, easy, and flavorful recipe for Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts. Perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner.

**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15-20 minutes
**Total Time:** 20-25 minutes
**Servings:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/2 cup apricot preserves
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Red pepper flakes
* Optional: Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. In a small bowl, combine apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 3-5 minutes.
4. Place chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Air fry for 10 minutes.
6. Brush the tops of the chicken breasts with apricot glaze.
7. Return to air fryer and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Brush with more glaze during the last 2-3 minutes.
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
10. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired.

**Notes:**

* Don’t overcrowd the air fryer.
* Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through.
* Adjust cooking time as needed.
* Let chicken rest before slicing.

Enjoy!

These Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, combined with the convenience of the air fryer, makes this a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and serving suggestions to create your own unique twist on this delicious dish. Happy cooking!