Quick Marinated Chicken
A flavorful, easy-to-make marinated chicken dish featuring a tangy, sweet sauce with Russian dressing, marmalade, and onion soup mix, perfect for casual dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Combine the Russian dressing, dry onion soup mix, and marmalade in a bowl.
- Mix until well blended.
- Layer half the sauce on the bottom of a shallow baking dish.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts side-by-side on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken.
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F for 1 hour or until the chicken is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade. If you don't have Russian dressing, a mix of Italian dressing and a bit of ketchup can work as a substitute. Make sure to marinate the chicken overnight for the best results, as this allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. For a twist, try it with a side of coleslaw, making it a great addition to summer barbecues or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover marinated chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it in intervals, ensuring it stays moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Marinated Chicken contains roughly 283 calories, with 21g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 495mg per serving (22% 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 chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs for this recipe. They will add a bit more moisture and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to cover it well in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even further, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
What can I substitute for the onion soup mix?
If you don't have onion soup mix, you can create your own by combining dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and some dried herbs like thyme and parsley. This will give a similar flavor profile to the marinade without the premade mix.
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).