Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken Breasts
Tender baked chicken breasts coated in a sweet and tangy orange marmalade sauce with green peppers, perfect for a flavorful, easy family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, combine orange marmalade, onion soup mix, chopped green pepper, soy sauce, orange juice, and Italian dressing.
- Spray a large pan or dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place chicken breasts in the pan and pour the sauce over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar to the sauce mix. If you don't have orange marmalade, apricot preserves can be a good substitute. To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts, ensuring to adjust the baking time accordingly. For a spicy kick, add a few red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. Steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad pairs well, adding a nice crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Special Macaroni, which complements the sweet and sour flavors beautifully. Garnish with chopped green onions for an added pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked sweet and sour chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken Breasts contains roughly 334 calories, with 5g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2040mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's important to thaw them completely before baking. Cooking from frozen may result in uneven cooking and longer baking times. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight for best results, ensuring it cooks evenly and stays tender.
What can I serve with baked sweet and sour chicken?
This dish pairs excellently with rice or noodles. You might also consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For a unique twist, try serving it with Chicken A La Johanna for a delightful combination of flavors that your guests will love.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for added moisture and flavor. You could also reduce the amount of orange marmalade or use a sugar-free version. Adding more vegetables, such as snap peas or carrots, can increase the nutritional value without compromising taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).