Jezebel Chicken
+6 photos

Jezebel Chicken

4 servings
Jezebel Chicken is a Southern favorite that brings together an irresistible mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Each bite features tender, juicy chicken with perfectly golden, crisped skin—smothered in a playful sauce made from apple jelly, pineapple preserves, horseradish, and mustard.

Ingredients

  • skin-on

    bone-in chicken thighs, patted dry

    4
  • kosher salt
    1 ½ tsp
  • black pepper

    divided

    ½ tsp
  • apple jelly
    3 tbsp
  • pineapple fruit preserves
    3 tbsp
  • prepared horseradish
    2 tbsp
  • ground dry mustard
    ½ tsp
  • crushed red pepper
    ½ tsp
  • shallot

    finely chopped

    1 large
  • green onions

    thinly sliced

    2
  • garlic clove

    minced

    1 large
  • chicken broth
    1 c
  • unsalted butter

    cubed

    1 tbsp
  • chopped fresh parsley for garnish

    optional

Directions

  1. 1

    Sprinkle chicken evenly all over with salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

    Step 1
  2. 2

    Arrange chicken skin-side down, in a single layer in a large skillet, and place skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, undisturbed, until skin is crispy and well browned, 6 to 9 minutes. Flip chicken over and cook until golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes, adjusting heat as needed to prevent overbrowning. Transfer chicken to a plate, skin-side up. Reserve 1 tablespoon drippings in skillet; discard remaining drippings. (See Note.)

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Meanwhile, stir together apple jelly, pineapple preserves, horseradish, dry mustard, crushed red pepper, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl until well combined for Jezebel sauce; set aside.

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Add shallot to drippings in the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until softened and fragrant, about 1 minute. Add green onions and garlic, and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any brown bits.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Stir prepared jelly mixture (Jezebel sauce) into skillet until combined. Return chicken to the skillet, skin side up. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until a thermometer inserted into thickest portion of chicken registers at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C), 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer chicken to a large plate. Continue to cook sauce, stirring frequently, until it can lightly coat the back of a spoon and hold a trail when a finger is run through, about 1 minute more.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Stir in butter, swirling pan until combined, and sauce is glossy.

    Step 6
  7. 7

    Spoon Jezebel sauce over chicken. Garnish with parsley.

    Step 7
Jezebel Chicken
+6

Jezebel Chicken

5.0(4)40 min4 servings481 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a dinner that's anything but ordinary? Jezebel Chicken delivers an exciting symphony of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, making it a true Southern favorite. This recipe promises tender, juicy chicken thighs with perfectly golden, crisped skin, all enveloped in its signature, vibrant sauce.

This recipe works because it masterfully balances bold ingredients. The unique Jezebel sauce—a playful combination of sweet apple jelly and pineapple preserves cut with the pungent kick of horseradish and a whisper of dry mustard—transforms simple chicken into a memorable dish. The crispy skin locks in the chicken's moisture, ensuring every bite is succulent and flavorful.

Prepare for a taste experience that excites the palate. You'll savor the initial sweetness from the fruit preserves, which quickly gives way to the zesty, peppery warmth of horseradish and a subtle heat from crushed red pepper. The chicken itself will be fork-tender beneath its savory, crisped skin, soaking up the complex sauce beautifully. This is a satisfying, comforting dinner that feels special without being overly complicated.

Customization is easy to tailor this dish to your liking. Feel free to adjust the amount of prepared horseradish to your taste; some prefer a milder zing, while others crave a bolder punch. Similarly, increase or decrease the crushed red pepper for your desired level of spice. While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are specified for their richness, you could experiment with other chicken cuts, keeping in mind that cooking times will vary.

This Jezebel Chicken is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal fuss. Serve it alongside simple rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite roasted vegetables to let the chicken's bold flavors shine.

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