Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Name: Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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 (broken into 6 or 8 pieces); 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/2 cup fig preserves

Published: June 21, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: The combination of fig preserves and balsamic vinegar creates a deliciously sticky sauce that elevates the chicken’s natural flavors.
Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its sweet and savory profile, this skillet chicken is sure to please everyone at the table.
Quick Cooking Time: In just 40 minutes, you can have a mouthwatering dinner ready to enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9-inch cast iron skillet
Small mixing bowl
Whisk
Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

9-inch cast iron skillet: Perfect for even heat distribution, ensuring your chicken cooks thoroughly while developing a beautiful crust.
Small mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like butter and seasonings efficiently without making a mess.
Whisk: Helps mix sauces smoothly, ensuring every ingredient is well incorporated.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) for perfect doneness.

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)
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 helps achieve a crispy skin on the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

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

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Place the broken-down chicken pieces into your cast iron skillet. Rub the prepared butter mixture generously over all sides of each piece of chicken to ensure maximum flavor.

Step 4: Start Roasting

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

Step 5: Baste with Sauce

After about 10 minutes in the oven, pull out the chicken and brush most of the sauce over it. Return it to the oven and continue cooking while basting every 10 minutes with any sauce left in the pan.

Step 6: Check Doneness

Cook until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C), which should take about 25 minutes total. Once cooked through, pour any remaining sauce over the top before letting it cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Pairing this dish with the right sides can elevate your dining experience and make it even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Vegetables

Steamed Broccoli – The mild taste complements the sweet sauce.
Roasted Asparagus – Adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
Sautéed Spinach – Lightly seasoned spinach brings freshness to the plate.

On a Bed of Rice

White Rice – Absorbs the sauce beautifully, enhancing each bite.
Wild Rice Blend – Offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pairs well with the chicken.
Quinoa – A healthy option that adds protein and a slight crunch.

With a Salad

Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing contrasts nicely with the glaze’s sweetness.

How to Perfect Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

To ensure your Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Rub – Generously rub the butter mixture all over the chicken to maximize flavor.
Baste Regularly – Basting every 10 minutes ensures even coverage of the fig sauce for a delightful glaze.
Use a Meat Thermometer – Check for an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) for safe and juicy chicken.
Let It Rest – Allowing the chicken to rest before serving helps retain its juices for better flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Serving Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and flavorful, these potatoes soak up the fig glaze wonderfully.
Herbed Couscous – Light and fluffy, couscous adds a lovely texture alongside your chicken.
Grilled Zucchini – Adds a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet sauce.
Creamy Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread pairs nicely with savory dishes, making it an excellent choice.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness complements the fig glaze perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Not Preheating the Oven: If you skip preheating, your chicken will cook unevenly. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before roasting.
Using Too Much Salt: Over-salting can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts, and adjust according to taste.
Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature can lead to undercooked or dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s 165 °F (74 °C) for safety.
Skipping Basting: Neglecting to baste the chicken can result in dry pieces. Make sure to brush on the sauce every 10 minutes for maximum flavor and moisture.
Choosing the Wrong Pan: Using a non-cast iron skillet may not give you the best results. A cast iron skillet helps achieve that perfect sear and retains heat well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags.

Reheating Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Place pieces of chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then place chicken in the pan. Cover and cook for about 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of preserves for this recipe?

Yes, while fig preserves give a unique flavor, you can experiment with other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry for different tastes.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165 °F (74 °C) in the thickest part of the meat.

What side dishes pair well with Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe with boneless chicken?

Yes! Boneless chicken can be used but may require less cooking time. Adjust accordingly based on thickness.

Final Thoughts

Fig Glazed Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also adaptable for various tastes and dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices! This recipe is sure to impress at any dinner table—give it a try!

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