Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

The Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a unique blend of sweet and tangy flavors to your dinner table. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply a cozy weeknight meal. With its impressive presentation and rich taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fig preserves and balsamic vinegar creates a sticky sauce that’s both sweet and tangy.
• Versatile Servings: Perfect for serving at family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering; this dish fits any occasion.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup while enjoying all the delicious flavors.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from the chicken, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfect roasting and adds a beautiful sear to the chicken.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature without overcooking.
• Whisk: Aids in mixing ingredients smoothly, especially useful for creating the glaze sauce.

Ingredients

The sticky sweet and tangy sauce of this skillet chicken is a hit on the dinner table!

For the Chicken

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 sprigs rosemary (destemmed and minced)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 fryer chicken (broken into 6 or 8 pieces)

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup fig preserves

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 °F (218 °C). This high temperature will help achieve that crispy skin on your chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together softened butter with half of the minced garlic, half of the minced rosemary, half of the salt, and half of the pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Place your chicken pieces into a 9-inch cast iron skillet.
– Rub the prepared butter mixture generously on the outside of each chicken piece to infuse flavor.

Step 4: Start Roasting the Chicken

Place the skillet in the preheated oven to begin roasting. Meanwhile:
1. In another bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, fig preserves, remaining garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Apply Glaze While Cooking

After about 10 minutes:
– Pull out the skillet from the oven.
– Brush most of your glaze over the chicken.
– Return it to cook while basting every 10 minutes with any sauce left in the pan.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Cook until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C), which should take around 25 minutes. Lastly:
– Pour any leftover sauce over before allowing it to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken!

How to Serve Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delightful dish that bring out its flavors.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together baby spinach, arugula, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing contrast.
• Arugula Salad: Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette to enhance the sweetness of the fig glaze.

Accompany with Grains

• Quinoa: Serve fluffy quinoa as a nutritious base that complements the savory chicken.
• Wild Rice: The nutty flavor of wild rice pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the glaze.

Add a Touch of Sweetness

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the tangy notes of the chicken.
• Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: These add a rich, slightly sweet crunch to your plate.

How to Perfect Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Creating the perfect Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out just right.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and rosemary will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the chicken to roast thoroughly for juicy, tender meat.
• Baste Regularly: Brush on sauce every 10 minutes for maximum flavor infusion.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165 °F (74 °C) for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

To complement your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken, consider these tasty side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes provide a comforting addition.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds both color and crunch to your plate.
3. Sautéed Green Beans: A quick sauté with garlic enhances their natural flavor and makes them a great side.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives and feta gives an exciting twist.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs all those delicious juices from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few steps that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before placing your chicken inside.

• Skipping the Basting Step: Neglecting to baste the chicken during cooking can result in dry meat. Make sure to brush the sauce over the chicken every 10 minutes for added moisture and flavor.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using poor quality balsamic vinegar or fig preserves may affect the overall taste. Opt for high-quality ingredients for a more delicious outcome.

• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking if your chicken has reached 165 °F (74 °C) could lead to undercooked meat. Always use a meat thermometer for accurate results.

• Overcrowding the Skillet: Placing too many pieces of chicken in the skillet can cause steaming instead of roasting. Ensure there’s enough space between pieces for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or stock and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits instead of figs for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like apricots or cherries, but ensure they complement the balsamic vinegar’s tanginess.

What side dishes go well with Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To lighten it up, consider using olive oil instead of butter and reducing the amount of fig preserves used in the glaze.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating your chicken overnight will enhance its flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking time if using cold chicken from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze brings out incredible flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Elevate your dinner experience with Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken, a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of fig preserves with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar. This one-pan wonder is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family meal. The chicken is juicy and tender, coated in a sticky glaze that brings bold flavors to every bite. With minimal cleanup and maximum impact, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 sprigs rosemary (destemmed and minced)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 fryer chicken (broken into 6 or 8 pieces)
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup fig preserves
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425 °F (218 °C).
2. In a bowl, mix softened butter with half of the garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the butter mixture onto the chicken pieces in a cast iron skillet.
4. Roast in the oven while whisking together balsamic vinegar, fig preserves, remaining garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
5. After 10 minutes of roasting, brush most of the glaze on the chicken and continue cooking while basting every 10 minutes.
6. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C), about 25 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg