Introduction
This flavorful roast chicken recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with aromatic scallions, all enhanced by a touch of sweetness from apricot preserves and a kick from chili crisp. Quick to prepare and great for any occasion, this dish is served over rice and can be complemented with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon kosher salt
10 cracks of freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
10 scallions, sliced in half lengthwise
1/4 cup apricot preserves
A few tablespoons of chili crisp
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and position an oven rack in the top third of the oven.
2. Cut the scallions in half lengthwise.
3. Slice the chicken breasts horizontally into thinner pieces. Place them on a sheet pan and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the sesame oil and soy sauce over the chicken.
4. Toss the scallions in some of the oil and arrange them on top of the chicken.
5. Bake for 6 minutes on the prepared oven rack.
6. Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, aiming for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and for the scallions to achieve slight charring.
7. Immediately spoon the apricot preserves and chili crisp over each piece of chicken, allowing them to melt in.
8. Serve the chicken and charred scallions over rice, adding any additional vegetables as desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and position an oven rack in the top third of the oven.
Step 2: Prepare Scallions
Cut the scallions in half lengthwise.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts horizontally into thinner pieces. Place them on a sheet pan and season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil and reduced-sodium soy sauce over the chicken.
Step 4: Arrange Scallions
Toss the scallions in some of the oil and arrange them on top of the chicken.
Step 5: Initial Baking
Bake for 6 minutes on the prepared oven rack.
Step 6: Broil the Chicken
Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Monitor closely to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the scallions achieve a slight char.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Immediately spoon the apricot preserves and chili crisp over each piece of chicken, allowing them to melt into the dish.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the chicken and charred scallions over rice, adding any additional vegetables, such as cucumbers, as desired.
Notes
Cooking Time
Be cautious during the broiling step, as it can quickly go from perfectly charred to burnt.
Chicken Thickness
For even cooking, ensure that the chicken slices are uniform in thickness when slicing.
Vegetable Suggestions
Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and helps achieve the desired texture and flavor.
Cutting Chicken Breasts
Slicing chicken breasts horizontally into thinner pieces helps them cook faster and more evenly, ensuring they remain juicy.
Seasoning
Seasoning the chicken with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper enhances its flavor profile.
Drizzling Oil and Sauce
Drizzling sesame oil and reduced-sodium soy sauce not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
Layering Scallions
Arranging sliced scallions on top of the chicken allows them to infuse their flavor into the meat while also providing a nice texture contrast when charred.
Baking and Broiling
Baking the chicken first allows for even cooking, while broiling at the end creates a charred finish that adds depth and flavor.
Using Apricot Preserves and Chili Crisp
Spoon the apricot preserves and chili crisp over the hot chicken right after broiling. The heat will melt the preserves and enhance the dish’s flavor with sweetness and heat.
Serving with Rice and Vegetables
Serving the chicken over rice and with additional vegetables creates a balanced meal with various textures and flavors.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What can I substitute for sesame oil?
You can use olive oil or any neutral oil, but the flavor profile will change.
Is there a different sauce I can use instead of soy sauce?
You could use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This recipe brings together the savory flavor of chicken with the rich taste of toasted sesame oil and the sweetness of apricot preserves. The addition of charred scallions adds a delightful crunch, while the chili crisp introduces a touch of heat. Served over rice with your choice of vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Use similar marinated chicken but grill instead of bake. Serve in corn tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with a mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Drizzle with the same sesame oil and soy sauce mixture.
Apricot Glazed Salmon
Replace the chicken with salmon fillets, keeping the apricot preserves for glazing. Bake until salmon flakes easily, and serve with steamed asparagus and rice.
Vegetable Fried Rice
Use leftover rice and stir-fry with mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and bell peppers. Add soy sauce and sesame oil for flavor.
Chili Crisp Vegetable Noodles
Prepare your favorite noodles and toss with sautéed vegetables and chili crisp for a spicy, aromatic dish that pairs well with proteins like chicken or tofu.
