Apricot chicken … the ultimate comfort food!

Apricot Chicken Casserole is a delicious, savoury dish with a slightly sweet twist. It’s often made with chicken, apricot jam or nectar, and a mix of vegetables, creating a comforting meal. Here’s a simple recipe inspired by the kind of dish you’d find in Women’s Weekly magazines.

Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
1 onion, diced
2.5 tablespoons olive oil
1 tbs of Clive of India curry powder
350mls orange juice
2 tbs plain flour
450ml chicken stock
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
16 apricots cut in half
2 tbs sultanas
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you prefer)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Rice or mashed potatoes, to serve

Instructions:
Heat a large heavy pan with 1.5 tbs oil to a medium heat. I like to use a cast iron pot.
Prepare the chicken: Cut chicken breasts into large chunks, then season with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken breast chunks for 4-5 minutes until golden. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Wipe pan down with kitchen roll.
Add the remaining oil to the pan on medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent. Turn the pan down a little and return the chicken to the pan, sprinkle in curry powder and cook for a few minutes, do not allow the chicken to burn.
Add the flour stirring, then blend in the stock and orange juice. Bring to the boil, then lower heat to a slow simmer.
Add the apricots and sultanas, and with lid on, allow to cook gently for and 45 minutes, still at a low simmer. Checking to make sure the ingredients don’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If sticking you can add a bit more orange juice or stock. If you find the sauce needs thickening before serving mix in cornflour. Make sure you mix the cornflour first with water before adding to pan.
Serve with warm basmati rice, fried zucchini slices and corn.

Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve the casserole over rice or mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your sweet and savory casserole! You can also make this dish ahead of time, then reheat it for an easy dinner.