French Dressing Chicken
Sweet and savory baked chicken glazed with apricot preserves and French dressing, perfect for a comforting family dinner with a hint of tangy fruitiness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- To make the sauce, combine apricot preserves, French dressing, dry onion soup, and applesauce in a bowl.
- Put the chicken into a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1-1/2 hours.
- Serve the chicken over prepared rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of garlic powder to the sauce mixture. If you don't have apricot preserves, peach or orange marmalade can work as a substitute. To make this dish a bit healthier, use reduced-fat French dressing. Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the French Dressing Chicken over a bed of prepared rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. It also goes well with Cabbage Noodle Salad for a delightful combination. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes.
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 and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Dressing Chicken contains roughly 270 calories, with 2g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
It is recommended to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before preparing this dish. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture ahead of time. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for a delicious meal when you're ready to cook.
What can I serve with French Dressing Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots. For a comforting touch, you could also serve it alongside Light 'N' Easy Chicken for a mix of flavors. Don't forget to serve with rice to soak up the tasty sauce!
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).