Easy Sweet And Sour Chicken
Sweet and tangy with a hint of fruitiness, this easy sweet and sour chicken is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The rich flavors of Russian dressing and apricot preserves create a delicious glaze that complements the tender chicken pieces, offering a comforting yet flavorful meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken in a single layer in a pan or ovenproof casserole.
- Mix the remaining ingredients with a little water.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the onion soup mix, dressing, and preserves for a few hours before baking. If you don't have Russian dressing, a mix of ketchup and mayonnaise can work as a substitute. Consider using chicken thighs for more moisture. For a twist, add diced bell peppers or pineapple chunks to the sauce for a fruity touch, reminiscent of other popular chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sweet and sour chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with roasted Harvest Potatoes for a hearty side. For a refreshing contrast, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the dish's sweetness, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, then warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individually portioned servings for quick reheating, ensuring they are heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Sweet And Sour Chicken contains roughly 89 calories, with 1g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 best to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption from the sauce. If you're short on time, you could also cook it from frozen, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for apricot preserves?
If you don't have apricot preserves, you can substitute with peach preserves, orange marmalade, or even a homemade fruit compote. The key is to maintain the sweetness and slight acidity that complements the dish, making it versatile for different taste preferences.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to the dish, consider mixing in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken. Alternatively, serve with a side of spicy pickles or a hot sauce for those who prefer extra spice.
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).