The Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the sticky sweetness of figs and the savory goodness of chicken. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. The combination of balsamic vinegar and fig preserves creates an irresistible glaze that enhances the flavors of the chicken, making it not just a meal but an experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
- Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of fig preserves and balsamic vinegar creates a tangy, sweet glaze that elevates the chicken.
- Versatile Dish: This skillet chicken pairs well with various sides like rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in a cast iron skillet means less cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic touch that wows your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools and equipment to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: This tool provides even heat distribution, perfect for roasting chicken and creating a delicious glaze.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently before applying them to the chicken.
- Whisk: Perfect for ensuring all glaze components meld together smoothly.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches safe internal temperatures, guaranteeing juicy results.
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 (I just used 6 drumsticks and 2 thighs both with skins on))
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 ensures that the chicken cooks evenly once placed in the oven.
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: Apply Butter to Chicken
Place your chicken pieces into a 9-inch cast iron skillet.
– Rub the butter mixture generously over the outside of each piece.
Step 4: Begin Roasting
Put the skillet in the preheated oven to start roasting while you prepare the glaze.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, fig preserves, remaining minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper until fully blended.
Step 6: Baste and Finish Cooking
After about 15 minutes:
– Carefully pull the chicken out of the oven.
– Brush most of the prepared glaze over each piece.
– Return to oven and baste with pan sauce every 10 minutes until cooked through.
Step 7: Check Doneness
Cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C), which takes about 25 minutes total.
Step 8: Serve
Pour any remaining sauce over the cooked chicken. Let it cool slightly before serving directly from your skillet for added flair!
How to Serve Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken
Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is a delightful main course that captures the attention of everyone at the dinner table. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile pairs well with various side dishes and presentation styles.
Casual Family Dinner
- Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic feel. The sizzling chicken and glossy sauce will entice everyone to dig in.
Elegant Plate Presentation
- Plate individual servings with a drizzle of extra fig glaze on top. Add fresh rosemary for garnish to elevate the dish visually.
Meal Prep Option
- Portion out leftovers into airtight containers. This dish reheats well, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.
Festive Gatherings
- Serve alongside a charcuterie board featuring assorted cheeses and fruits. This combination complements the sweetness of the chicken beautifully.
How to Perfect Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken
To achieve the best results with your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken, consider these helpful tips:
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and rosemary enhance the flavor, making your dish more aromatic and vibrant.
- Don’t skip the basting – Basting the chicken with sauce during cooking ensures it’s juicy and packed with flavors.
- Check doneness – Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) for safe consumption.
- Experiment with herbs – While rosemary is great, try adding thyme or sage for a unique twist on flavor.
- Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of fig preserves slightly or balance it with more balsamic vinegar.
Best Side Dishes for Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken can enhance its overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes seasoned with garlic complement the rich flavors of the chicken perfectly.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables – A mix of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers adds color and healthy crunch.
- Quinoa Salad – A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and feta provides a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
- Sautéed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil make for an easy yet elegant side dish.
- Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest enhances every bite of chicken.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn can be grilled or boiled, adding a delightful sweetness that matches well with fig glaze.
- Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb option, this dish absorbs flavors well while keeping it light.
- Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad dressed lightly allows all flavors to shine without overwhelming your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold chicken: Starting with cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Not seasoning properly: Skipping or skimping on salt and pepper can result in bland chicken. Make sure to season all sides generously for the best flavor.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many pieces of chicken in the skillet can prevent proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Neglecting internal temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature may lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer and ensure it reaches 165 °F (74 °C).
- Skipping basting: Not basting the chicken during roasting can lead to a dry dish. Brush the sauce over the chicken every 10 minutes for maximum moisture and flavor.
- Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, resulting in dryness. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your leftover Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken
- Place cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and cover the chicken with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken?
Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is a flavorful dish made by roasting chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy fig sauce combined with balsamic vinegar.
Can I use different types of fruit preserves?
Yes! While fig preserves work wonderfully, you can substitute them with other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry for varied flavors.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
The best way to check if your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read at least 165 °F (74 °C).
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the fig glaze beforehand and store it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight for enhanced flavors.
What sides pair well with Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. The sweet and tangy flavors make it perfect for weeknight 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!
Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken
Elevate your dinner table with Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken, a harmonious blend of savory chicken and sticky, sweet glaze. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, offering a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. The combination of balsamic vinegar and fig preserves creates an irresistible sauce that enhances the chicken’s juiciness and taste. With minimal prep time and easy clean-up, this one-pan wonder promises to be a hit at any meal.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 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 (cut into 6 or 8 pieces)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup fig preserves
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425 °F (218 °C).
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, half of the garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the butter mixture over the chicken pieces placed in a cast iron skillet.
- Roast in the preheated oven while preparing the glaze.
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar, fig preserves, remaining garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
- After 15 minutes of roasting, baste the chicken with glaze and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C).
- Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor. Baste regularly for moist chicken. Experiment with different fruit preserves for varied tastes.