Sweet Almond Chicken
Sweet Almond Chicken features tender chicken breasts coated in a luscious jelly-based sauce with almonds, offering a sweet and savory flavor perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken in a lightly greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Drizzle with melted butter.
- Combine red currant jelly, brown sugar, lemon juice, prepared mustard, cinnamon, and red pepper in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat until jelly dissolves, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Stir in slivered almonds.
- Pour half of the jelly mixture over the chicken.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until done.
- Baste with remaining jelly mixture.
- Broil chicken 4 inches from heat until nicely browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetness. If you don't have red currant jelly, apricot or raspberry jelly can be good substitutes. When baking, ensure the chicken is fully coated with the jelly mixture for optimal flavor penetration. Adjust the cinnamon and red pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. Serve alongside fluffy rice or couscous to soak up the sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving with a side of roasted potatoes or a warm bread roll. It also complements recipes like Walnut-Broccoli Bake and Chantille'S Chicken Spaghetti for a complete dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Sweet Almond Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave in short intervals if preferred.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Almond Chicken contains roughly 248 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 19g fat.
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 thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. They will add more moisture and flavor to the dish. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few additional minutes to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spiciness, you can add a bit more red pepper or consider incorporating cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the jelly mixture. Additionally, serving the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce can complement the flavors nicely.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the jelly mixture a day in advance. Marinate the chicken in the jelly mixture overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor. When ready to cook, simply bake it as instructed. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining.
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).