Chicken And Rice Pilaf
A flavorful chicken and rice pilaf baked with a savory blend of Russian dressing, preserves, and onion soup, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Mix Russian dressing and apricot and pineapple preserves together.
- Pour the dressing and preserves mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle dry onion soup over the top.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker cooking time, consider using thin chicken cutlets instead of breasts. You can substitute the Russian dressing with a mixture of mayonnaise and ketchup for a similar flavor. If you don't have skinny noodles, any small pasta can work. For a lighter version, try using less margarine or a non-stick cooking spray.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Rice Pilaf pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Rice Pilaf contains roughly 856 calories, with 10g protein, 206g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1108mg per serving (48% 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 other preserves instead of apricot and pineapple?
Yes, you can substitute with other fruit preserves like peach or mango for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the preserves are sweet to balance the savory elements of the dish.
What can I do if I don't have chicken broth?
If you don't have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water with added bouillon cubes for flavor. This will still provide a tasty base for the rice in the pilaf.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. This can help the flavors meld together nicely, making it a great option for meal prep.
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).