This fig chicken is a tasty dish with sweet fig jam and tender chicken. Easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal. Enjoy the juicy chicken and the burst of fruity flavor from the jam!
This fig chicken dish is bursting with flavor! It’s such an easy way to elevate the flavor of chicken.
Figs are a fruit that is often overlooked in cooking, but they can add a delicious and unique flavor to any recipe. Chicken is a versatile protein that can be cooked in many different ways. When you combine figs and chicken, you get a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying!
This one skillet recipe is great for the whole family! Make it for busy weeknights, weekend dinner parties, or for meal prep. For more great ideas, check out our Chicken Recipes and our High Protein Meal Prep Ideas!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why you will love this fig chicken recipe.
- First, it is easy to make. You only need a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
- In addition, this recipe is delicious. The fig jam adds a sweetness and tartness to the chicken that is simply irresistible.
- It is healthy. Chicken is a lean protein source, and figs are a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
- Everything is cooked together in one skillet.
- Pair this dinner with any side dish! We love our crispy potato wedges and our smashed sweet potatoes.
- Make this for dinner on a busy weeknight or for friends on the weekend.
- The chicken and sauce reheat well! Great for meal prep.
Ingredients & Substitutes
Scroll down to the recipe card for the full fig chicken recipe.
For the best texture and flavor, use boneless chicken thighs. If you only have bone-in chicken, cooking times may need to increase. Chicken breasts can be used as well.
Fig jam adds a natural sweetness. Choose jam without any added sugar if possible.
A little olive oil helps cook the chicken. We also love avocado oil and butter.
Balsamic vinegar adds a delicious tartness.
Use chicken broth for more flavor. Otherwise, feel free to use water.
Minced garlic adds a tasty garlicky flavor! If you only have garlic powder, that works too.
Dijon mustard is highly recommended for added flavor.
Lastly, season with salt and pepper.
Taste & Texture
The taste of this fig chicken is unique and flavorful. The sweetness of the figs complements the savory flavor of the chicken. The figs also add a touch of tartness that balances out the sweetness.
The texture of the chicken is tender and juicy. The fig jam adds a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness to each bite.
How to Make
Step 1
First, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, then season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine the fig jam, balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and minced garlic.
Step 4
Spoon this mixture over the top of the chicken thighs.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the fig sauce for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
Step 6
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to thicken. Finally, serve the fig chicken thighs topped with the fig sauce.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are a few expert tips and tricks to help you make the perfect fig chicken.
Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor. We much prefer these to chicken breasts.
Use fig jam without added sugar. Figs are naturally sweet enough.
Don’t overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
Use a meat thermometer to measure the chicken internally.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
There are many different ways to flavor this fig chicken recipe.
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little spice. You can also add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Some other flavor variations and add-ins include:
A sprinkle of goat cheese
A drizzle of balsamic glaze
A handful of chopped walnuts or almonds
How to Serve & Store
This fig chicken is delicious served with a side of brown rice or quinoa. You can also serve it with a salad or roasted vegetables.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, you can use dried figs. Just be sure to rehydrate them before using them in the recipe.
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, I prefer to use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts because they are more flavorful.
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Just cook the chicken and then store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve it.
Equipment Needed
Large Nonstick Skillet: This large pan is great for cooking fig chicken!
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