Jam Coffee Glazed Chicken (Printable Version)

Tender thighs glazed in apricot jam and coffee with smoky spices for a flavorful meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - ½ teaspoon salt
04 - ½ teaspoon black pepper

→ Glaze

05 - 3 tablespoons apricot jam (up to ¼ cup)
06 - 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, cooled
07 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
09 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
10 - 1 garlic clove, minced
11 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Garnish (optional)

12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

# Directions:

01 - Set the oven to 400°F and allow it to reach temperature.
02 - Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub evenly with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together apricot jam, brewed coffee, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, minced garlic, and smoked paprika until smooth.
04 - Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or ovenproof skillet and brush with half of the prepared glaze.
05 - Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until partially cooked.
06 - Brush the remaining glaze over the chicken and return to oven for an additional 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and glaze caramelizes.
07 - Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The glaze tastes complex but uses ingredients you already have in the pantry.
  • Chicken thighs stay juicy even if you leave them in a few extra minutes.
  • It looks impressive enough for company but easy enough for a Tuesday.
  • The balance of sweet jam and bitter coffee keeps every bite interesting.
02 -
  • Don't skip patting the chicken dry or the skin won't crisp properly under the glaze.
  • Use cooled coffee, not hot, or the glaze will break and turn watery.
  • Brush the second layer of glaze on gently so you don't scrape off the first coat.
03 -
  • Let the chicken come to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking so it bakes evenly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid guessing, 165°F is the magic number.
  • Save any leftover glaze and drizzle it over roasted vegetables or grilled pork chops.
Go Back