Chicken Sweet And Sour
A sweet and tangy chicken dish featuring apricot preserves, Russian dressing, and onion soup mix, perfect for a comforting family dinner with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the red Russian dressing, onion soup mix, and apricot preserves in a bowl.
- Place chicken parts close together in a pan.
- Cover the chicken with the mixture.
- Bake at 375°F for about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, try adding a splash of vinegar or some chopped bell peppers to the mixture. If you don't have red Russian dressing, a mix of Russian and Italian dressings can work as a substitute. Additionally, using boneless chicken thighs can reduce cooking time while keeping the meat juicy. Consider serving with a side of rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Sweet and Sour over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed broccoli or green beans make excellent sides, adding color and nutrition to the plate. This dish also pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad, such as a Skinny Macaroni Salad(Lo-Fat), for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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, then warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Sweet And Sour contains roughly 157 calories, with 1g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 473mg per serving (21% 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 types of preserves in this recipe?
Absolutely! While apricot preserves give a unique flavor, other fruit preserves like peach or mango can also work well. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences.
What type of chicken should I use?
You can use bone-in chicken pieces for more flavor, or boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the cut, so adjust accordingly to ensure it's cooked through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you're ready. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier dish.
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).