Spicy Peanut Chicken
Spicy Peanut Chicken is a tantalizing dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce featuring the unique flavors of Russian dressing and apricot preserves. The addition of peanut butter and roasted peanuts gives it a delightful crunch. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish pairs beautifully with yellow rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken in greased baking dish, skin side up.
- Mix all other ingredients and pour over chicken.
- Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes in a preheated 350° oven or until very tender.
- Serve over a bed of yellow rice.
- Spoon extra sauce on rice, if desired. Garnish with parsley, tomatoes, spring onions or bell pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using spicy peanut butter instead of regular. If you don't have Russian salad dressing, a mix of mayonnaise and ketchup can work as a substitute. For a healthier option, use skinless chicken breasts. Make sure to baste the chicken halfway through baking for even flavor distribution.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spicy Peanut Chicken over a bed of cooked yellow rice for a complete meal. Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad enhances the dish. It pairs beautifully with Blueberry Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for additional flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers 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 loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Peanut Chicken contains roughly 438 calories, with 17g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 614mg per serving (27% 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 instead of cut-up fryer chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless pieces may cook faster. Check for doneness at around 45 minutes to ensure they don't dry out.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate the tofu in the sauce before baking for enhanced flavor. You can also explore vegetarian recipes that use similar spices for a different twist.
What can I use instead of apricot preserves?
If apricot preserves are not available, peach or mango preserves can be great alternatives. They will provide a similar sweetness and fruity flavor that complements the spicy elements of the dish.
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).