Easy Sweet `N' Sour Chicken
A quick and flavorful sweet 'n' sour chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a tangy sauce made from Russian dressing, apricot preserves, and onion soup mix, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange chicken in a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Mix remaining ingredients well in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Cover with foil for at least 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of Russian dressing and apricot preserves for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have Russian dressing, a mix of ketchup and mayonnaise can work as a substitute. You can also replace apricot preserves with peach or mango preserves for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Sweet 'N' Sour Chicken over a bed of steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs well with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad on the side. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Chicken Wild Rice Casserole (Makes 12 Servings) for a delightful combination.
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 with foil. Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the chicken's moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Sweet `N' Sour Chicken contains roughly 300 calories, with 2g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast halves; however, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. This will allow for even cooking and better absorption of the sauce. If using frozen, you may need to increase the baking time slightly.
What can I substitute for onion soup mix?
If you don't have onion soup mix, you can create your own by combining 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This will give a similar flavor profile to the dish without compromising on taste.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The sweet and tangy flavor of the apricot preserves and Russian dressing is often a hit with kids. You might consider serving it with a side of their favorite vegetables to create a balanced meal that they will enjoy.
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).