Mary Ellen'S Chicken
A hearty baked chicken and sausage dish featuring flavorful red potatoes and colorful peppers, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, savory tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken parts, sweet sausage, red potatoes, green pepper, red pepper, and onion in Italian salad dressing for over 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the marinated ingredients in a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 1.5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the marinade. If you prefer a spicier kick, substitute the sweet sausage with hot Italian sausage. Red potatoes can be replaced with Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes for different textures. For a quicker prep, use pre-cut vegetables or frozen stir-fry mixes that are readily available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary Ellen's Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Wonderful Potato Soup for a comforting, hearty dinner. Crusty bread would also complement this dish nicely, perfect for soaking up any delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Ellen'S Chicken contains roughly 522 calories, with 10g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (130% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 826mg per serving (36% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster than bone-in parts. Check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Marinating time can remain the same to infuse flavor.
What can I substitute for Italian salad dressing?
If you don't have Italian salad dressing, you can make a quick marinade using olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs. This will provide a similar flavor profile. Another option is to use a store-bought vinaigrette that complements chicken dishes.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as denser vegetables may require longer to cook through. Mixing in seasonal vegetables can also enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition.
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).