• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• 1/4 cup of warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1/2 cup of apricot jam
• 1/4 cup of heavy cream
• 2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
• Serving Size: serves 4
• Prep Time: 20-30 mins
• Cook Time: 20-25 mins
• Total Time: approximately 1 hour
1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then set them aside.
2. Prepare the Saffron: Soak the saffron threads in 1/4 cup of warm water in a small bowl for about 10 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, cook the chopped onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the apricot jam, stirring until it melts, then incorporate the saffron water. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the pan, ensuring it is coated with the sauce. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley.
Saffron and apricot chicken is a deliciously aromatic dish that blends the earthy warmth of saffron with the natural sweetness of apricots. The savoury and sweet flavours are perfectly balanced, with tender chicken cooked in a saffron-infused sauce and enhanced by the tangy notes of dried apricots. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner, this dish provides a unique take on traditional chicken recipes, offering a flavourful taste of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine.
Saffron and apricot chicken is inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Persia and the Middle East, where saffron and dried apricots are commonly used to achieve a balance of savoury and sweet flavours. In Persian culture, saffron is a symbol of luxury and celebration, making this dish perfect for special gatherings. Apricots, native to the Mediterranean and Central Asia, offer a natural sweetness that complements the saffron-infused sauce. The dish also reflects influences from Moroccan tagines, where dried fruits and spices are slow cooked with meats. Altogether, saffron and apricot chicken embodies the warmth and richness of Middle Eastern hospitality.
Saffron and apricot chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months in an airtight container.
