# Sheet Pan Apricot Chicken with Charred Scallions: An Easy and Delicious Dinner Recipe
In the world of effortless weeknight meals, few options can match the convenience and flavor of sheet pan dinners. One particular recipe that has gained popularity for its remarkable taste and easy cleanup is **Apricot Chicken with Charred Scallions**. This meal pairs tender chicken with a delightful sweet and savory apricot glaze, all prepared on one sheet pan. Let’s delve into why this recipe is a must-try for anyone in search of a speedy yet fulfilling dinner.
## Reasons to Love This Recipe
At first glance, the concept of chicken adorned with a few simple sauce ingredients might seem unremarkable. However, this modest dish has shown itself to be a hit with many. The blend of **sesame oil, soy sauce, and apricot jam** delivers a flavor foundation that is both deep and satisfying. The true highlight, however, is the **charred scallions**. When roasted, scallions acquire a wonderfully rich onion flavor that enhances the whole dish, making it taste like you put in hours of preparation.
### Noteworthy Features:
– **Fast Preparation**: The chicken cooks swiftly, ensuring it remains succulent and moist.
– **Easy Cleanup**: With everything cooked on a single sheet pan, you’ll spend less time scrubbing dishes.
– **Burst of Flavor**: The mix of sweet apricot and savory scallions creates a distinct flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more.
## Ingredients You Will Need
To prepare this tasty Apricot Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
– Chicken breasts (or thighs)
– Sesame oil
– Soy sauce
– Apricot jam
– Scallions
– Chili crisp (optional, for an extra kick)
– Salt and pepper
### For Serving:
– Cooked rice (to absorb the flavorful juices)
– Additional sesame oil and soy sauce (for drizzling)
## Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to **450°F**. Adjust the rack to a position near the top for optimal roasting.
### 2. Prepare the Scallions
Slice the scallions in half lengthwise. This will help them char beautifully and impart their flavor into the chicken.
### 3. Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts horizontally into thinner sections for faster cooking. Arrange them on a sheet pan and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the chicken with sesame oil and soy sauce.
### 4. Add the Scallions
Coat the scallions in a touch of oil and place them atop the chicken.
### 5. Bake
Insert the sheet pan into the oven and bake for approximately **6 minutes**.
### 6. Broil for Char
Activate the broiler and broil for an additional **1-2 minutes**. The objective is to reach an internal temperature of **165°F** for the chicken while giving the scallions a lovely char.
### 7. Serve
Once finished, drizzle apricot jam and chili crisp over the chicken. Serve alongside rice and splash any pan juices over the top for an additional flavor lift.
## Frequently Asked Questions
### Can I use a different cut of chicken?
Absolutely, chicken thighs work well too. Just keep them whole and adjust the baking time accordingly since they are thicker.
### Can I grill this recipe?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken in sesame oil and soy sauce prior to grilling.
### What if I don’t have apricot jam?
You can substitute with orange marmalade or even a drizzle of honey to add sweetness.
### What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to toss in vegetables like broccoli or green beans onto the sheet pan for a complete meal.
### Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu using a similar marinade to create a tasty vegetarian option.
## Conclusion
This **Apricot Chicken with Charred Scallions** exemplifies how basic ingredients can unite to form a dish that is both flavorful and gratifying. Whether cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is bound to impress. With its minimal cleanup and quick prep time, it’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. Give it a try, and you might find yourself questioning, “Why is this so delicious?” Enjoy!