Easy Apricot Chicken
A sweet and savory chicken dish featuring apricot preserves, Russian salad dressing, and onion soup mix, perfect for a comforting family meal with a hint of fruitiness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and dry chicken; arrange in single layer in casserole dish.
- Blend apricot preserves, Russian salad dressing, and dried onion soup mix to create a marinade.
- Pour marinade over chicken and let stand for best flavor.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours, less time for smaller pieces of chicken.
- Serve with rice.
- Pour gravy over rice when serving, making sure to include the apricot pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of garlic powder to the marinade. You can substitute the Russian salad dressing with a homemade vinaigrette if desired. For a quicker cooking time, cut the chicken breasts into smaller pieces. Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavor even more.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apricot chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the sweet gravy to soak in. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For a special occasion, consider serving it alongside Heavenly Potato Casserole for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Cover with foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Apricot Chicken contains roughly 928 calories, with 13g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2191mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of skinless breasts?
Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in pieces typically require longer cooking to ensure they are fully cooked. Make sure to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for apricot preserves?
If you don't have apricot preserves, peach or mango preserves work well as alternatives. You can also make a quick homemade version by simmering chopped dried apricots with a bit of water and sugar until thickened.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken up to a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).