Sticky, But Good!
A sweet and savory chicken dish featuring apple jelly, honey, and dates, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a delightful sticky glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin the chicken pieces.
- Bake the chicken in a 400°F oven for 25 minutes.
- Drain the chicken.
- Return the chicken to a casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix honey, apple jelly, and chicken seasoning.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped dates.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey and apple jelly mixture for a few hours before baking. If you don't have apple jelly, apricot or peach preserves work well as a substitute. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey, especially if you prefer a less sweet dish. For added texture, try using chopped nuts instead of dates.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the sweetness. It pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes, allowing you to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider browsing more American recipes that complement this sticky chicken, like Sunday Chicken N' Rice.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be cautious as it may make the chicken less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sticky, But Good! contains roughly 780 calories, with 97g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (194% of the Daily Value) and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2622mg per serving (114% 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 typically cook faster, so start checking for doneness after about 20 minutes in the oven. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add heat, consider incorporating a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the honey and jelly mixture. This will give the dish a nice kick while still balancing the sweetness.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken with the sauce and dates a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then bake it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and can save you time on busy days.
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).