Applesauce Glazed Chicken

🍗🍏 Applesauce Glazed Chicken 🍏🍗

What is it?
Applesauce Glazed Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of applesauce with the savory goodness of chicken. It’s a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for those who enjoy a balanced taste profile in their meals.

History:
The exact origin of Applesauce Glazed Chicken is a bit unclear, but it likely evolved from traditional dishes that paired poultry with sweet fruit-based sauces. Apples have long been used in cooking to add sweetness and depth to various dishes, making them a natural fit for glazing chicken.

Components:
To prepare Applesauce Glazed Chicken, you’ll need the following components:

1. Chicken: You can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs.
2. Applesauce: Homemade or store-bought unsweetened applesauce works well.
3. Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelization to the glaze.
4. Dijon Mustard: Provides a tangy kick and balances the sweetness.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds acidity to cut through the sweetness.
6. Garlic: Minced garlic cloves for flavor.
7. Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken.
8. Spices: Salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken in the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

3. Make the Glaze: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute. Then, add brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and applesauce. Stir well to combine.

4. Simmer and Glaze: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the glaze over it. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, serve it hot with the delicious applesauce glaze spooned over the top. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color.

Preparation Time:
Applesauce Glazed Chicken typically takes around 30-40 minutes to prepare, including the time for searing and simmering the chicken. It’s a relatively quick and easy dish to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Enjoy your delightful Applesauce Glazed Chicken! 🍽️🤩

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Applesauce Glazed Chicken:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a 4-ounce serving):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Total Fat: 8-10 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugars: 15-20 grams
• Cholesterol: 70-80 mg
• Sodium: 300-400 mg
• Vitamin C: 2-4 mg (2-4% DV)
• Calcium: 20-30 mg (2-3% DV)
• Iron: 1-2 mg (6-11% DV)

Health Information:

• Protein: Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Total Fat: The dish contains moderate amounts of fat, mainly from the chicken and the olive oil used for cooking.
• Saturated Fat: The saturated fat content is relatively low, making it a healthier option.
• Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates mainly come from the applesauce and brown sugar in the glaze, providing energy.
• Dietary Fiber: There’s minimal fiber in this dish, but you can increase it by serving it with a side of vegetables or whole grains.
• Sugars: The sugars are primarily from the natural sweetness of applesauce and brown sugar. Be mindful of added sugars in store-bought applesauce.
• Cholesterol: Chicken is a good source of protein with relatively low cholesterol content.
• Sodium: The sodium content may vary depending on the salt added during cooking, but it’s generally moderate.
• Vitamins and Minerals: This dish provides small amounts of vitamin C, calcium, and iron. You can enhance its nutritional profile by serving it with nutrient-rich sides like steamed vegetables or a salad.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. It’s always a good idea to check product labels and adjust the recipe to meet your dietary needs and preferences.