Russian Chicken
Russian Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy apricot glaze, enhanced with savory onion soup and Russian dressing. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it pairs wonderfully with white rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange chicken pieces in a baking dish, skin side down.
- Heat apricot preserves, dry onion soup mix, and Russian dressing in a saucepan.
- Once the preserves are melted and ingredients are combined, pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, turn the chicken pieces over, and continue baking for another 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, preferably with white rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the Russian dressing overnight. If you don't have apricot preserves, substitute with peach or mango preserves for a similar sweetness. You can also use a low-sodium onion soup mix to reduce sodium levels. This dish is versatile; try adding a splash of soy sauce for a different twist. Browse more chicken recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
This Russian Chicken pairs beautifully with white rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also complement the dish well. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the sauce and make it a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish covered with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Chicken contains roughly 139 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% 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 accordingly. Boneless pieces may cook faster, so check for doneness after about 25 minutes to avoid overcooking. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I substitute for Russian dressing?
If you don't have Russian dressing, a mix of equal parts ketchup and mayonnaise with a dash of Worcestershire sauce can be a good substitute. Alternatively, you can use Thousand Island dressing for a similar taste profile.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to cook, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).