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Apricot-Mustard Baked Chicken

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This apricot-mustard baked chicken offers a delightful balance of sweet and savoury flavours, making it a reliable choice for a quick midweek dinner. Using skin-on thighs or drumsticks ensures the meat stays succulent while the apricot jam caramelises into a sticky, fragrant glaze. The addition of grainy mustard and fresh thyme cuts through the sweetness, providing a sophisticated depth that elevates this simple traybake into something truly special.

As a high-protein dish, it is both satisfying and nutritious, pairing perfectly with steamed seasonal greens or a crisp garden salad. Because it requires minimal preparation and uses store-cupboard staples, it is an excellent recipe for busy households looking for a wholesome, homemade meal. The final flourish under the grill creates a golden, crispy finish that is sure to make it a family favourite.

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Ingredients for Apricot-Mustard Baked Chicken

  • 6 to 8 skin-on chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks), rinsed and patted dry

  • Salt and pepper

  • 180ml apricot jam

  • 1 tablespoon grainy mustard

  • 1/4 cup water

  • Leaves from 2 sprigs fresh thyme

How to make Apricot-Mustard Baked Chicken

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Preheat the oven to 204°C.

Place the chicken on a rimmed biscuit sheet or baking dish lined with foil or parchment paper, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and bake for 10 minutes.

While the chicken is baking, whisk together the jam, mustard, water, thyme, and a little salt and pepper in a small saucepan over low heat for about 3 minutes. It should be slightly syrupy.

Pull the chicken out of the oven and pour the sauce on top. Continue baking for another 15 minutes. For the last 3 minutes, place the chicken under the grill on the top rack so it gets golden and crispy looking.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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