Keto Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs

Crispy, sweet, and tangy apricot-glazed chicken thighs are the ultimate answer to your takeout cravings. This keto-friendly dish boasts only 2 net carbs per serving and comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to your favorite Chinese-inspired flavors or a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Chef’s Tips

• Choose the Right Chicken: Chicken thighs work best for this recipe as they remain moist and flavorful while crisping nicely in the air fryer. If preferred, chicken breasts or pork chops can also be used, though cooking times may vary.
• Cut for Bite-Sized Options: For a nugget-style dish, cut the chicken into smaller pieces and reduce cooking time accordingly.
• Apricot Alternatives: If apricot jam isn’t available or isn’t your preference, marmalade can be substituted to create an orange-glazed version of this dish.
• Coconut Aminos Substitute: For those avoiding soy, coconut aminos are an excellent alternative. Note that they are less salty and slightly sweeter than soy sauce, so adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
• Don’t Skip Garlic and Ginger: These ingredients add essential depth to the flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic and ginger paste work well.

Ingredients

• 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
• 1/2 cup sugar-free apricot jam: Adds sweetness and tanginess while keeping the recipe keto-friendly.
• 1 tsp soy sauce or coconut aminos: Adds umami to the glaze.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Enhances the tangy flavor of the glaze.
• 1 tsp ginger paste: Provides warmth and depth to the dish.
• 2 tsp minced garlic: A key flavor component—don’t skip it!
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season the chicken.

Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs: Replace with chicken breasts, drumsticks, or pork chops for a different protein option.
• Sugar-Free Apricot Jam: Swap with marmalade, sugar-free peach preserves, or even sugar-free barbecue sauce for a new flavor profile.
• Dijon Mustard: Replace with yellow mustard or whole grain mustard for a milder flavor.
• Ginger Paste: Use freshly grated ginger or powdered ginger (reduce to 1/4 tsp if using powdered).
• Garlic: Substitute with garlic powder (1/2 tsp) if fresh isn’t available.

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the chicken.
2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish or directly into the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry the chicken: Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 10 minutes.

4. Prepare the glaze: While the chicken cooks, combine the apricot jam, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), Dijon mustard, ginger paste, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Set aside.
5. Flip and continue cooking: Remove the chicken from the air fryer, flip it, and return it to the air fryer for an additional 6–8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Glaze the chicken: Brush the glaze generously over the chicken thighs.

7. Caramelize the glaze: Return the glazed chicken to the air fryer and cook for 2–3 more minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and develop a sticky texture.
8. Serve and enjoy: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

FAQs

This crispy, tangy, and sweet apricot-glazed chicken is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home with minimal effort!

Pairings And Side Dishes

• Oven Roasted Vegetables with Thyme
• Pomme Duchesse
• Roasted Summer Squash (+VIDEO)
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Pineapple Peach Agua Fresca
• Easy Blackberry Cobbler (+VIDEO)