π Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts π
What is it?
Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a sweet and tangy apricot glaze. This dish is known for its perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, making it a favorite for many.
History:
The history of this dish is not well-documented, but it likely emerged as a fusion of culinary traditions that celebrate the combination of savory and sweet flavors. Apricots have been used in cooking for centuries, and their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with chicken.
Components:
- Chicken Breasts: You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts as the main protein for this dish.
- Apricot Jam: The key ingredient for the glaze is apricot jam or preserves, which provides the sweet and fruity flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and balances the sweetness of the apricots.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic or garlic powder imparts a delicious aroma and depth of flavor.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger or ground ginger adds a hint of warmth and complexity to the glaze.
- Dijon Mustard: This condiment adds a slight tanginess and helps emulsify the glaze.
- Olive Oil: For searing the chicken breasts and preventing them from sticking to the pan.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken and the glaze.
Steps to Prepare:
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Preparation: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper.
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Searing: Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and sear the chicken breasts until they are golden brown on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once seared, remove the chicken breasts from the pan and set them aside.
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Glaze: In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger, and sautΓ© for a minute until fragrant. Then, add apricot jam, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
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Return Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, coating them with the apricot glaze. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (74Β°C).
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Serve: Plate the chicken breasts and drizzle the remaining glaze over them. You can garnish with fresh herbs or sesame seeds for added flair.
Time Needed:
The total preparation time for Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts is approximately 25-30 minutes. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests with a tasty and visually appealing meal. Enjoy! π½οΈπ©βπ³π¨βπ³
Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximately 4 oz of chicken with glaze):
- Calories: Around 220-250 calories
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Fat: Around 5-7 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 0-1 gram
- Sugar: Approximately 15-20 grams (from apricot jam)
- Sodium: Around 500-600 milligrams (varies based on soy sauce and salt used)
Health Information:
- Protein: Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Carbohydrates: The apricot glaze adds some carbohydrates from the apricot jam, providing quick energy.
- Fat: This dish is relatively low in fat, especially if you use minimal oil for searing.
- Sugar: The sugar content comes primarily from the apricot jam, and while it provides sweetness, it’s important to consume sugary dishes in moderation.
- Sodium: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you are on a low-sodium diet. You can reduce the amount of soy sauce or opt for low-sodium soy sauce.
Overall, Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts can be a nutritious choice when balanced with a variety of other foods in your diet. It provides protein, some carbohydrates, and limited fat. However, be cautious with the added sugar and sodium, especially if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns.
