Cranberry Sweet And Sour Chicken
A vibrant and flavorful chicken dish featuring sweet-tart cranberries, crunchy green peppers, and a tangy French dressing glaze, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except chicken.
- Place chicken in a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and cover with foil.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
- Serve hot with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding some chopped onion or garlic to the mix. If you're short on French dressing, a combination of olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of sugar can serve as a substitute. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture. To balance the sweetness, try incorporating a dash of soy sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cranberry Sweet And Sour Chicken hot over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete dinner. For a twist, try serving it alongside the Special Broccoli Casserole for added flavor and texture. Don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Sweet And Sour Chicken contains roughly 612 calories, with 3g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's recommended to thaw it first to ensure even cooking. If using frozen pieces, adjust the baking time as they may require an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven.
What can I substitute for cranberries if I don't have any?
If you don't have whole cranberries, you can use whole berry cranberry sauce or even an alternative fruit like pineapple chunks for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).