Chicken With Apricots And Prunes
Juicy chicken breast halves are baked with sweet apricots, prunes, garlic, and herbs, creating a flavorful dish with a perfect balance of savory and fruity notes, ideal for special dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breast halves, prunes, apricots, olive oil, wine, garlic, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl and marinate for several hours or overnight.
- Remove chicken from marinade when ready to bake.
- Arrange chicken in a shallow baking casserole dish and spread the marinade on top.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Serve with rice or mashed sweet potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a splash of balsamic vinegar in the marinade. If you don't have dry white wine, chicken broth or apple juice can work as substitutes. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cumin. Be cautious with salt since the prunes and apricots add sweetness, balancing the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with rice or mashed sweet potatoes, allowing the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken to shine. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad can add a refreshing contrast. For a delightful meal, consider serving with a glass of the same white wine used in the cooking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Apricots And Prunes contains roughly 412 calories, with 6g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (99% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried apricots and prunes?
While fresh fruit can provide a different texture and flavor, dried fruits like apricots and prunes are recommended for their concentrated sweetness and ability to meld into the dish. If you choose fresh fruit, add it towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and then bake it when you're ready to serve. This can enhance the flavors. Just remember to keep the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook it.
What can I substitute for chicken breast?
You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even a combination of chicken pieces for varied textures. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).