If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with sweet and tangy goodness, the Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken with a luscious fig glaze that hints of balsamic vinegar and a touch of Dijon mustard for complexity. The result is a beautiful balance of flavors that not only impresses at the dinner table but also comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re already a fan of fig preserves or looking to try something refreshingly different, this Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken Recipe has all the charm and ease you need.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward yet essential to crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in this dish. Each component plays a specific role, from seasoning and richness to that signature sweetness and tang.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for more juiciness or breasts for a leaner option, both work wonderfully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the chicken and glaze.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild kick to balance the sweetness of the fig glaze.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden, appetizing crust.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant depth that complements the glaze beautifully.
- 1/2 cup fig preserves: The star of the show, delivering natural sweetness and jammy texture.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Brings acidity and a rich, tangy undertone that brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness that lifts the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers herbal freshness to balance the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle heat that enhances complexity without overpowering.
- 1/3 cup chicken broth: Helps to create a silky, flavorful sauce.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enriches the glaze with a creamy finish and glossy look.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken pieces dry—this is crucial for getting that wonderful golden crust. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes per side so it develops a rich, caramelized exterior and cooks through to a juicy perfection inside. Once done, transfer it to a plate and keep warm.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Glaze
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and toss in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick step wakes up the pan with delightful aroma. Then add the fig preserves, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes as it thickens into a luscious sauce that’s bursting with complexity.
Step 3: Finish the Glaze and Chicken
Stir in the butter until it melts completely, lending the glaze a silky sheen and richness. Return the chicken pieces back to the skillet, spooning the warm glaze generously over every bit. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to ensure every bite of chicken is coated in that gorgeous fig glaze. Remove from heat and get ready to serve!
How to Serve Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is all it takes to add a fresh, herbal brightness and a burst of color that makes the dish pop beautifully on the plate. It also adds a subtle lift in flavor and freshness to contrast the sweet glaze.
Side Dishes
This Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the glaze, fluffy rice for an easy accompaniment, or a medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans to add vibrant texture and nutrition to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken sliced over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter meal or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for an autumn-inspired twist. You can also drizzle some extra fig glaze over the top just before serving for that elegant touch that impresses guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it makes a fantastic next-day meal or lunch option.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prep ahead. Place the cooked chicken and glaze in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing to preserve the texture and taste.
Reheating
When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, spooning the glaze over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving directly for best results to maintain the tender texture and glossy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Absolutely, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can be used but you will need to increase the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The bone adds extra flavor and juiciness, making the dish even more comforting.
What can I substitute for fig preserves?
Apricot preserves make a fantastic alternative, providing a similar fruity sweetness that pairs well with balsamic vinegar and mustard. You can also experiment with other stone fruit jams like peach or plum for a different twist.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or other gluten ingredients. Just ensure your chicken broth and mustard are gluten-free brands for complete safety.
How spicy is the dish with crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overwhelming the sweetness of the fig glaze. You can adjust the amount or omit it based on your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Definitely! Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully in this recipe. Breasts are leaner and cook slightly faster, so watch your timing closely to avoid drying out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simple elegance of this Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken Recipe that makes it a staple for anyone who loves combining sweet and savory flavors with minimal fuss. Once you try it, you’ll see how easy it is to elevate weeknight dinners or impress guests with a delightful dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Go ahead and give it a try—you’re going to love every bite!
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Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken recipe combines juicy, tender chicken thighs or breasts with a sweet and savory fig glaze made from fig preserves, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Cooked in a skillet, this dish offers a quick, flavorful main course perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. The sauce is thickened with butter and infused with garlic, thyme, and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Garnished with fresh parsley, it pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Fig Glaze Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fig preserves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare the glaze base: Lower the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Make the fig glaze: Stir in fig preserves, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and chicken broth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Finish the sauce: Add butter to the skillet and stir continuously until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
- Combine chicken and glaze: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the fig glaze over each piece. Simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes to coat the chicken evenly and allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with your choice of side like rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- You can substitute apricot preserves for fig preserves to create a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- If using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts, increase the cooking time and be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure doneness.
