Russian Cranberry Chicken
A flavorful and easy baked chicken dish featuring a tangy cranberry and onion sauce, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Served over hot rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the onion soup mix, Russian salad dressing, and cranberry sauce. Mix well.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow 2 or 3-quart baking dish that has been sprayed with Pam.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the chicken is done.
- Serve the chicken over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using a different flavor of salad dressing, like a poppy seed or balsamic vinaigrette, for a unique taste. If you want to reduce sodium, use low-sodium onion soup mix. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking its internal temperature reaches 165°F. This dish also works well with bone-in chicken pieces for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Russian Cranberry Chicken over the hot cooked rice as it absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. For a complete meal, pair it with steamed green beans or a fresh salad, such as Donna'S Chicken Salad, for a refreshing contrast. This dish also pairs nicely with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. It can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Cranberry Chicken contains roughly 507 calories, with 9g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value) and protein (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, they will require a longer baking time. It’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for more even cooking. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
What can I substitute for the Russian salad dressing?
If you don't have Russian salad dressing, you can substitute it with a mix of equal parts ketchup and mayonnaise, or use a tangy vinaigrette for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of honey or sugar to mimic the original taste.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to this dish, consider mixing in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce into the sauce mixture. You can also serve it with a spicy side like a jalapeño cornbread for a flavorful kick.
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).