Excellent Chicken
Sweet and tangy chicken baked with apricot preserves, onion soup mix, and Russian dressing, creating a flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken in a shallow baking dish.
- Mix apricot preserves, dry onion soup mix, and thick red Russian dressing together.
- Spread the sauce mixture over the chicken pieces.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours until cooked through and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting peach preserves for the apricot preserves for a different fruity flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Make sure to use a shallow baking dish to ensure even cooking and better sauce coverage. This dish is also great for meal prep, making it easy to serve later.
Serving Suggestions
This Excellent Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh green salad. Roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes are excellent sides that complement the sweetness of the apricot preserves. For a complete meal, consider serving with a refreshing cucumber salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For more delicious chicken ideas, browse more chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored 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 keep it moist, and cover with foil. Bake at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Excellent Chicken contains roughly 182 calories, with 2g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 boneless chicken breasts instead of quartered chickens?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but be sure to reduce the cooking time to about 30-40 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will help prevent them from drying out.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of red Russian dressing?
If you can't find thick red Russian dressing, a mix of Thousand Island dressing and a bit of ketchup can work as a substitute. Alternatively, you can make a homemade version using mayonnaise, ketchup, and a splash of vinegar for tang.
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).