Let’s be real: chicken can be boring. As a mom, finding new and exciting dinner ideas can feel like a full-time job. It’s mind-numbing to constantly try to come up with something that isn’t the same old, same old. And sometimes, no matter how hard I try, the inspiration just doesn’t come. One of those particularly uninspired days hit me recently. I opened the fridge to find nothing but a jar of peach jam (leftover from making Nola’s lunch sandwiches) and a pack of chicken drumsticks. I was about ready to throw in the towel and order takeout, but then I thought—why not throw them together?

What started as a last-ditch effort to avoid another boring meal turned into a dinner that blew me away. The peach jam paired with rosemary turned out to be a game-changer. Sweet, savory, and bursting with flavor, this dish is now a family favorite. And to kick things up a notch, I added candied bacon lardons. Trust me, it’s the dinner you didn’t know you needed!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a winner because it masterfully balances sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, creating a complex yet harmonious taste that elevates everyday chicken into something special. The peach jam brings a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the dish. Peaches have a mild, juicy sweetness that’s not too overpowering, making them the perfect base for a glaze. The sugar in the jam caramelizes as it cooks, creating a sticky, flavorful coating on the chicken drumsticks. This not only adds a delightful sweetness but also enhances the chicken’s golden-brown color and juicy texture.

Adding candied bacon lardons brings a crispy, salty element to the dish. The sweetness of the bacon complements the peach jam, while its saltiness contrasts with the sweet glaze, enhancing the overall taste. The crispy texture of the bacon provides a nice contrast to the tender chicken, making each bite more interesting and satisfying. The pan sauce, made by deglazing with chicken stock and bouillon paste, ties everything together. It absorbs the flavors of the browned bits (fond) left in the skillet, which are packed with flavor. Adding peach jam and a touch of butter at the end creates a rich, glossy sauce that coats the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

What You'll Need

Large Oven-Safe Skillet
Tongs
Spoon or Basting Brush
Cutting Board and Knife

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Questions? I Got Answers

‍1. Can I use other cuts of chicken besides drumsticks?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with various cuts of chicken. You can use chicken thighs, wings, or even bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. If you opt for chicken breasts, you might need to adjust the cooking time since they can take a bit longer to cook through. Boneless, skinless cuts can also be used, but you may want to reduce the oven time slightly to prevent them from drying out.

2. What if I don’t have peach jam? Can I use another type of jam or fruit preserve?

No peach jam? No problem! This recipe is versatile and works well with other types of jam or fruit preserves. Apricot, mango, or even orange marmalade can be used as substitutes. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the dish, but they will still pair wonderfully with the rosemary and savory chicken. If you prefer less sweetness, you can also use a slightly tart jam, like cherry or cranberry.

3. Do I need to use fresh rosemary, or can I substitute dried rosemary?

Fresh rosemary is preferred in this recipe because it imparts a more vibrant, aromatic flavor. However, if you don’t have fresh rosemary on hand, you can use dried rosemary. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about half the amount. Instead of three sprigs of fresh rosemary, use about 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried rosemary.

4. How should I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (though, don’t count on it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken and sauce will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to keep the sauce from drying out.

5. Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time, which makes it great for entertaining or meal prep. Prepare the dish as directed, then allow it to cool. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

6. What sides pair well with this dish?

This sweet and savory chicken dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the chicken and sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans are great choices.
• Rice or Quinoa: These grains soak up the flavorful sauce, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower: A creamy, comforting side that complements the sweet and savory notes of the chicken.

7. Can I make this recipe without the candied bacon?

Definitely! While the candied bacon adds a deliciously sweet and salty crunch, you can omit it if you prefer a lighter dish or if you're avoiding pork. The chicken with the peach and rosemary glaze will still be flavorful and delicious on its own. If you want to add a bit of texture and flavor, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts (like pecans or almonds) over the top as a crunchy garnish.

There you have it—a dish that takes boring old chicken and turns it into something extraordinary. The combination of sweet peach jam, savory rosemary, and crispy candied bacon makes this a meal that’s sure to impress. Next time you’re feeling uninspired at dinner time, remember: sometimes, all it takes is a jar of jam and a little creativity to #makesdinnerexcitingagain. Enjoy!

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