Save This jam-glazed chicken pasta transforms simple pantry ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner that balances sweet apricot jam with savory chicken and aromatic herbs. The combination creates a silky sauce that clings beautifully to pasta, making every bite a perfect harmony of flavors.
I created this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something special but quick. My family was so impressed they thought I'd spent hours in the kitchen, and it's now our go-to dish when we have guests but limited prep time.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and take on the sweet glaze beautifully. Look for plump pieces of even thickness for best results.
- Apricot jam: forms the foundation of our glaze. Choose a high quality jam with visible fruit pieces for the most authentic flavor.
- Fresh thyme: adds an earthy herbaceous note that cuts through the sweetness. Always opt for fresh over dried for this recipe.
- White wine vinegar: brings necessary acidity to balance the jam. The mild tang helps prevent the dish from becoming too sweet.
- Penne or fusilli pasta: works best as the ridges and curves capture the silky sauce. Cook it just until al dente for perfect texture.
- Shallots and garlic: create an aromatic base. Look for firm shallots without any soft spots.
- Butter: enriches the sauce and gives it a glossy finish. Use unsalted so you can control the seasoning.
- Chili flakes: add a gentle heat that complements the sweet jam. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil before adding a generous tablespoon of salt. The water should taste like the sea. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8 to 10 minutes. Before draining, reserve half a cup of starchy pasta water to help bind the sauce later. Drain pasta but do not rinse to preserve the starchy coating that helps sauce adhere.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt and pepper, pressing the seasonings gently into the meat. Heat olive oil in a large skillet until shimmering but not smoking. Add chicken carefully away from you to prevent oil splatter. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until a golden crust forms, then flip and cook another 4 to 5 minutes. The chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for at least 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Create the Sauce Base:
- Using the same skillet with all those flavorful chicken bits, add butter and reduce heat to medium low. Once melted, add shallots and cook for 2 minutes until translucent but not browned. Add garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it as this would create bitterness.
- Develop the Glaze:
- Add apricot jam to the skillet, stirring constantly until it melts into the butter. Pour in chicken broth and white wine vinegar, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the browned bits. Add fresh thyme leaves and chili flakes if using. Simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce coats the back of a spoon. The sauce will look glossy and slightly thickened but still pourable.
- Combine Components:
- Slice the rested chicken against the grain into half inch strips. Return chicken to the skillet, gently turning pieces to coat with the glaze. Let them simmer in the sauce for 2 minutes to absorb flavors and heat through. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece with sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired silky consistency.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and lemon zest if using, then give everything a final gentle toss. The residual heat will release the essential oils from these ingredients, adding brightness to the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper as needed. Serve immediately in warmed bowls, garnishing with additional thyme leaves and offering grated Parmesan at the table.
Save The magic of this recipe truly lies in the apricot jam. I discovered this technique during a cooking class in Provence, where the chef explained that fruit preserves create instant depth and complexity in sauces. While many home cooks reach for honey or sugar to balance savory dishes, jam brings both sweetness and fruity notes that transform simple ingredients into something special.
Make Ahead and Storage
This jam glazed chicken pasta actually improves after sitting overnight as the flavors meld together beautifully. To store leftovers, cool completely then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the sauce as the pasta will have absorbed some moisture. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. The dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the pasta texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. If apricot jam isn't available, substitute peach preserves, orange marmalade, or fig jam for equally delicious results. Each brings its own unique character to the dish. For a protein swap, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay even juicier, or try turkey cutlets for a leaner option. Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with pan seared halloumi cheese or roasted cauliflower steaks. The pasta can be swapped for any shape that holds sauce well, including whole wheat or gluten free varieties. For a creamier version, stir in 2 tablespoons of crème fraîche or mascarpone just before adding the pasta.
Perfect Pairings
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with both wine and sides. For wine, reach for a crisp Sauvignon Blanc whose acidity cuts through the sweetness of the jam, or try an off dry Riesling that complements the fruity notes. For a red option, a light Pinot Noir works surprisingly well. Complete your meal with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to contrast the rich pasta. Roasted asparagus or broccolini make excellent vegetable sides, and warm crusty bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce. For a casual gathering, serve family style in a large shallow bowl garnished with extra herbs.
Seasonal Adaptations
Winter Replace fresh herbs with 1 tablespoon of herbes de Provence and add 1 cup of roasted winter squash cubes to the finished dish Summer Use apricot preserves made from fresh summer fruit and add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce in the final minutes of cooking Fall Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh sage instead of thyme and add 1 cup of roasted mushrooms for an earthy autumn variation
Success Stories
This recipe saved my dinner party when unexpected guests arrived. The quick preparation time and impressive presentation made everyone think I had planned an elaborate meal. One guest even requested the recipe before leaving! Another reader reported that her picky eater children cleared their plates without complaint, asking for seconds of the sweet glazed chicken. A cooking class student mentioned adapting the recipe for meal prep by doubling the chicken and sauce, using half for pasta and saving half for grain bowls later in the week.
Save This Jam-Glazed Chicken Pasta is a true weeknight hero, offering impressive flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy transforming everyday ingredients into a dish that will delight your family and guests alike.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I keep chicken tender for this dish?
Cook chicken just until golden and firm, then let it rest before slicing; avoid overcooking for the best texture.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Penne and fusilli are ideal as their shapes trap the glaze and reduction, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- → Can I use a different jam?
Yes, peach or orange marmalade both offer a sweet-tart balance and pair well with chicken and thyme.
- → How do I achieve a silky sauce?
Reserve some pasta water and add it gradually when tossing pasta with the glaze for a smooth, emulsified coating.
- → Is this dish spicy?
It’s mildly spiced if chili flakes are added. Adjust or omit to match your desired heat level.
- → What can I serve alongside?
A crisp green salad and chilled white wine complement the sweet and herbal notes of the pasta.