Apricot chili glazed fish has become my go-to for a weeknight meal that feels incredibly special. I remember the first time I tried a dish like this; the combination of sweet apricot and a gentle chili kick was a revelation. It’s that perfect balance of sweet and spicy apricot fish that makes your taste buds sing. This recipe is so simple, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this easy apricot chili glazed fish. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that’s simply irresistible. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Apricot Chili Glazed Fish
This dish is a winner for so many reasons. It’s got that amazing sweet and spicy apricot fish flavor profile that everyone raves about. Plus, it’s incredibly healthy and budget-friendly, making it perfect for any night of the week. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can get this on the table!
- Incredible Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet apricot and a gentle chili heat.
- Super Fast Prep: Ready in just 10 minutes of prep time.
- Healthy Choice: Lean protein with a delicious glaze.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable fish.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters love this sweet and spicy apricot fish.
- Quick Apricot Chili Glazed Fish: Get a gourmet meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Works with various types of white fish.
- Easy Apricot Chili Glazed Fish: Minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Ingredients for Apricot Chili Glazed Fish
Gathering the right apricot chili glaze ingredients is key to this dish’s success. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful apricot chili glazed fish:
- 1.5 lbs white fish fillets (like cod, halibut, snapper, or tilapia) – choose fillets about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves – this is the sweet base for our glaze.
- 1/4 cup chili sauce (such as Thai sweet chili sauce or sriracha) – provides that essential spicy kick.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce – adds savory depth and umami.
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice – brightens up all the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for aromatic flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – helps the glaze caramelize and prevents sticking.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – season your fish before glazing.
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Apricot Chili Glazed Fish
This recipe makes preparing delicious apricot chili glazed fish a breeze! You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a flavorful dish. Follow these steps to master how to make apricot chili glazed fish.
Apricot Chili Glaze Preparation
First, let’s whip up that incredible apricot chili fish sauce. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup apricot preserves, 1/4 cup chili sauce, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Add 1 tbsp olive oil. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, glossy glaze. This sauce is the heart of our dish!
Assembling and Baking the Fish
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup super easy! Step 2: Pat your fish fillets dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper. This helps the glaze adhere better. Step 3: Arrange the seasoned fish on the prepared baking sheet. Step 4: Generously brush the tops of the fish with your prepared apricot chili glaze. Make sure to coat them well! Step 5: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the glaze looks beautifully caramelized. This is how you get that perfect baked apricot chili fish!
Pro Tips for the Best Apricot Chili Glazed Fish
Want to elevate your apricot chili glazed fish game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of sweet and spicy every time.
- Always pat your fish completely dry before glazing. This helps the glaze stick and caramelize properly, instead of just sliding off.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each fillet a little space so the heat circulates evenly for consistent cooking.
- Keep an eye on the broiler if you use it! That final minute or two can turn a perfect glaze into a burnt mess very quickly.
What’s the secret to perfect apricot chili glazed fish?
The real secret to perfect apricot chili glazed fish is achieving that beautiful caramelization. Don’t be afraid to let the glaze get a little bubbly and browned on the edges. This develops a deeper, richer flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Can I make apricot chili glazed fish ahead of time?
Yes! You can totally prep the apricot chili fish sauce up to 5 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just whisk it again before glazing your fish right before baking. It makes getting this easy dish on the table even faster. For more information on food safety and storage, you can check out FDA guidelines.
How do I avoid common mistakes with apricot chili glazed fish?
The biggest mistake is overcooking! Fish cooks fast, so watch it closely. Another pitfall is a bland glaze; ensure you taste and adjust the chili sauce and lime in your apricot chili fish sauce before applying it. A little extra seasoning goes a long way! If you’re unsure about seasoning, consulting seasoning tips for fish can be very helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Apricot Chili Glazed Fish
Now that you’ve got this delicious apricot chili glazed fish ready, you might be wondering what to serve with apricot chili fish. I love pairing it with simple sides that let the glaze shine. A fluffy bed of quinoa or some fluffy white rice is perfect for soaking up any extra glaze. For a fresh contrast, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans tossed with a little garlic and lemon zest works beautifully. You can find great salad recipes on our recipe page.
You could also try some roasted asparagus or broccoli. The slightly bitter notes of the vegetables are a wonderful counterpoint to the sweet and spicy apricot chili glazed fish. It’s a complete, satisfying meal that’s both elegant and easy to put together!
Apricot Chili Glazed Fish Nutrition Facts
When you’re enjoying this delightful apricot chili glazed fish, it’s helpful to know what you’re eating. Here’s a general idea of the nutritional breakdown per serving, though remember that the exact values can vary based on the specific fish and glaze amounts used. For more details on healthy eating, you might find resources from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services useful.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 8-12g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Sodium: 300-500mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Apricot Chili Glazed Fish
Even though this apricot chili glazed fish is so good you’ll want to eat it all in one sitting, knowing how to store leftovers is key for enjoying this apricot chili glazed fish dinner later. Once your fish has cooled slightly, transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the glaze from drying out. If you have questions about our site’s policies, please see our privacy policy.
You can store leftover apricot chili glazed fish in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and they should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your apricot chili glazed fish again, the best way to reheat is gently. In the oven at around 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth, works wonders to bring back its delicious flavor and tender texture. For more cooking tips, you can visit our about page.
Variations of Apricot Chili Glazed Fish You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic with white fish, the beauty of this apricot chili glaze is its versatility! You can adapt it in so many ways to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. It’s amazing how a simple glaze can transform different proteins. For more recipe ideas, check out our homepage.
- Apricot Chili Glazed Salmon: This glaze is absolutely divine on salmon fillets. The richness of the salmon pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spicy apricot chili glaze. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for the fattier fish.
- Apricot Chili Glazed Cod: If you’re looking for a milder option, cod is a perfect choice. It absorbs the flavors beautifully, making for a delicate yet exciting apricot chili glazed cod dish.
- Pan-Seared Apricot Chili Fish: Instead of baking, try pan-searing! Sear your fish fillets in a hot skillet with a little oil until golden brown on both sides, then brush with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. It creates a wonderful crust.
- Spicy Apricot Glazed Shrimp: For a super quick meal, toss large shrimp with the glaze and cook them in a skillet for just a few minutes until pink and cooked through. It’s a fantastic appetizer or quick dinner.
Amazing Apricot Chili Glazed Fish in 30 Min
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apricot Chili Glazed Fish recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The apricot preserves and chili sauce create a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on delicate white fish fillets, making for an easy yet elegant weeknight meal. It’s a quick and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs white fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, snapper, or tilapia)
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup chili sauce (e.g., Thai sweet chili sauce or sriracha)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apricot preserves, chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil until the apricot chili glaze is smooth.
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place the seasoned fish on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the fish generously with the apricot-chili glaze.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is slightly caramelized. Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your fish fillets.
- For an extra touch of color and caramelization on your apricot chili glazed fish, you can broil it for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish the baked apricot chili fish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier apricot chili glaze, add more chili sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute orange juice for lime juice for a citrus twist.
- This apricot chili glazed fish recipe can be adapted for salmon, shrimp, or chicken breast.
- Leftover apricot chili glazed fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
- The apricot chili glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (varies by fish type and glaze amount)
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Sodium: 300-500mg
- Fat: 8-12g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6-9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Protein: 25-30g
- Cholesterol: 50-70mg
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