Chicken Barbecue Bake
Juicy, flavorful chicken baked with a tangy Russian salad dressing and onion soup mix, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chicken if desired.
- Arrange the chicken, skin side down, in a 9x13 inch pan.
- Simmer the dry onion soup mix and Russian salad dressing for 10 minutes.
- Spread the mixture over the chicken.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for one hour or overnight.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes, covered.
- Turn the chicken and bake for an additional 20 minutes, uncovered, until brown and tender.
- Baste the chicken often during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, brown the chicken before baking to enhance the taste and texture. If you don’t have Russian dressing, a mix of mayonnaise and ketchup can work as a substitute. You can also experiment with different dry soup mixes, like ranch, for a unique twist. Always baste the chicken during baking to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken. Consider serving it alongside cornbread for a comforting meal. For a complete spread, a chilled glass of South Georgia Iced Tea would complement the flavors nicely, making it perfect for a family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken barbecue bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Barbecue Bake contains roughly 125 calories, with 17g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value). At about 125 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 boneless chicken instead of cut-up fryer chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts for this recipe. Adjust the baking time as boneless pieces may cook faster. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a teaspoon of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes to the onion soup mix and salad dressing mixture. Adjust to taste before spreading it over the chicken.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the dressing and soup mix overnight for deeper flavor. Just remember to bake it the next day for a quick and easy meal.
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).