Easy Onion Chicken
Juicy, flavorful chicken coated in seasoned onion dressing and crispy bread crumbs, baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners and enjoyable with simple sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the onion salad dressing mix, softened butter, and paprika in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture over the chicken pieces.
- Roll the coated chicken pieces in the fine dry bread crumbs to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle additional paprika over the chicken for added color.
- Place the chicken pieces in a greased shallow baking pan, skin side up.
- Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 1 hour or until tender, without turning the pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the onion salad dressing mix with a ranch or Italian seasoning mix for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a crunchier texture, double-coat the chicken in the bread crumbs. Be sure to let the butter soften at room temperature for easier mixing. For a healthier option, use olive oil instead of butter. This dish complements American recipes beautifully and is perfect for family dinners.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Onion Chicken alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with Vicki'S Favorite Potato Soup for a comforting dinner or with rice to soak up the delicious juices. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual pieces, but the oven method helps maintain crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Onion Chicken contains roughly 530 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% 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 skinless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken pieces if you prefer. However, the skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor during baking. To compensate, you may want to reduce the baking time slightly to prevent drying out.
What if I don't have onion salad dressing mix?
If you don't have onion salad dressing mix, you can create a simple substitute using 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This will give you a similar flavor profile for your chicken.
Can I freeze the chicken after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the baked chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).