### Sesame Apricot Chicken with Charred Scallions
This apricot chicken, prepared on a sheet pan, is remarkably easy to make and full of flavor. With just a handful of straightforward ingredients and minimal cleanup, this recipe is ideal for a fast weeknight meal. The star of this dish is the roasted charred scallions on top, which contribute a wonderful richness of flavor.
#### Why This Recipe Works
The blend of sesame oil, soy sauce, and apricot jam forms a wonderfully sweet and savory foundation for the chicken. The charred scallions not only lend an oniony taste but also elevate the dish with a roasted complexity that gives the impression of a long cooking time, while in fact, it requires only about 20 minutes.
The chicken stays moist and tender thanks to a brief baking duration, and the charred pieces from the scallions introduce a flavor punch when served over rice. This recipe is not just straightforward but also a favorite among many, making it a hit with both family and friends.
#### Ingredients
– **For the Chicken:**
– Chicken breasts (sliced into thinner sections)
– Sesame oil
– Soy sauce
– Salt and pepper
– **For the Scallions:**
– Scallions (halved lengthwise)
– **For Serving:**
– Apricot jam
– Chili crisp (optional)
– Cooked rice
#### Instructions
1. **Preheat Oven:** Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) and arrange an oven rack in the upper third of the oven.
2. **Prep Scallions:** Halve the scallions lengthwise.
3. **Prep Chicken:** Slice the chicken into thinner horizontal pieces. Arrange the chicken on a sheet pan and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle sesame oil and soy sauce over the chicken.
4. **Add Scallions:** Toss the scallions in some oil and place them atop the chicken.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 6 minutes in the upper third of the oven.
6. **Broil:** Activate the broiler and broil for 1-2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F) and the scallions are slightly charred. Spoon apricot jam and chili crisp over the chicken while it’s still hot.
7. **Serve:** Plate the chicken with charred scallions over rice, drizzling with extra pan juices or sesame oil and soy sauce for enhanced flavor.
#### Frequently Asked Questions
– **Can you use a different cut of chicken, like chicken thighs?**
Yes, chicken thighs can be used effectively; just keep them whole and bake a bit longer.
– **Could you grill this recipe?**
Certainly, marinate the chicken in sesame oil and soy sauce while grilling.
– **Are there any other jams/preserves that could work?**
Orange marmalade or honey make excellent alternatives.
– **What veggies can I add?**
Fresh cucumber, air-fried broccoli, or green beans complement nicely.
– **What could you substitute for the scallions?**
Thinly sliced shallots would serve as a tasty replacement.
– **Could you make this vegetarian with tofu?**
Yes, you can substitute tofu while retaining the same flavors for a vegetarian version.
#### Conclusion
This Sesame Apricot Chicken with Charred Scallions is a straightforward yet flavorful dish that can easily become a regular in your dinner lineup. With its swift preparation and pleasing taste, it’s guaranteed to delight your family and friends. Savor this simple yet delicious meal that maximizes flavor with minimal effort!