Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

The Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its sticky sweet and tangy sauce, this recipe elevates simple chicken to something extraordinary. The combination of balsamic vinegar and fig preserves creates a unique flavor profile that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this skillet chicken will impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fig preserves and balsamic vinegar creates a rich, tangy sauce that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Cooking in a cast iron skillet means less cleanup while still achieving perfectly roasted chicken.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The unique flavors are sure to impress family and guests alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked safely to the right temperature.

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 Sauce

• 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 roast the chicken perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

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

Step 3: Rub the Chicken

Place the broken-down chicken pieces into your cast iron skillet. Rub the butter mixture generously over each piece to ensure it’s coated nicely.

Step 4: Start Roasting

Put the skillet in the preheated oven. While it’s roasting, whisk together balsamic vinegar, fig preserves, remaining garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper in another bowl until smooth.

Step 5: Brush on Sauce

After about 10-15 minutes of roasting, remove the skillet from the oven. Brush most of your prepared sauce over the chicken pieces before returning them to cook further. Baste every 10 minutes with additional sauce for extra flavor.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Cook until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C), which should take around 25 minutes in total. Pour any remaining sauce on top before letting it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Serving Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this dish for your family or guests.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad made with arugula, spinach, and a zesty vinaigrette complements the sweet flavors of the chicken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances the sweetness of the fig glaze.

Add Some Comfort

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture provides a perfect backdrop for the sticky sauce, soaking up every bit of flavor.
• Butter Rice – Simple buttered rice is a great option, allowing the rich sauce to shine through without overpowering the dish.

Elevate with Bread

• Crusty Bread – Serve warm crusty bread on the side to help scoop up any remaining fig glaze from your plate.
• Garlic Breadsticks – These add an aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.

How to Perfect Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Perfecting your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken takes just a few tips to ensure that it turns out delicious every time. Here are some essential pointers.

• Bold seasoning – Ensure you season both inside and outside of the chicken well for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Use fresh herbs – Fresh rosemary enhances the overall aroma and taste; dried herbs simply won’t provide the same depth.
• Monitor cooking temperature – Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165 °F (74 °C) to avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken.
• Baste frequently – Basting your chicken regularly with the sauce keeps it moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
• Rest before serving – Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices, ensuring each piece is juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Choosing the right sides can elevate your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken meal. Here’s a list of delicious side dishes that pair perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery potatoes that enhance the sweetness of the fig glaze.
2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and a pop of color to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad – A nutty quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a healthy contrast to the rich chicken dish.
4. Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic brings brightness and healthiness to your meal.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the fig glaze beautifully.
6. Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous cooked with herbs adds texture and absorbs any excess sauce nicely.
7. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that pairs well while still letting chicken take center stage.
8. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly charred zucchini adds great flavor while keeping things light and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Avoid these pitfalls for a delicious meal.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Be sure to use all the salt, pepper, and herbs as directed in the recipe.
• Overcrowding the skillet: If you put too many pieces of chicken in the skillet, they won’t roast evenly. Make sure there’s space between each piece for proper heat circulation.
• Ignoring temperature checks: Cooking times can vary based on your oven and chicken size. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C) for safe eating.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken right after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Using low-quality preserves: The fig glaze is key to this dish’s flavor. Use high-quality fig preserves for a richer taste that elevates your skillet chicken.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze portions of the chicken.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.
• Frozen chicken can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, checking frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Add chicken and cover, cooking until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for an extra kick. Just start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use other fruits instead of figs?

Yes! You can substitute fig preserves with apricot or peach preserves for a different flavor profile while still keeping it sweet and tangy.

Is Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken healthy?

This dish is relatively healthy when made with lean cuts of chicken and moderate amounts of butter. It offers protein and healthy fats while still being flavorful!

What sides pair well with Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken?

Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to complement its rich flavor without overwhelming your palate.

Final Thoughts

Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any dinner occasion. This dish’s sticky sweet and tangy glaze makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or swap out preserves based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try—your dinner table will thank you!