Sweet And Sour Red Chicken
Sweet and tangy red chicken glazed with apricot preserves and Russian salad dressing, garnished with orange slices and parsley — a flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces in a large shallow pan.
- Mix together salad dressing, dry onion soup mix, and apricot preserves. Add garlic and mustard or soy sauce if desired.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 1 hour or until tender, turning the chicken twice and basting with sauce.
- Arrange the chicken on a serving platter.
- Spoon the pan sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with orange slices and parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of mustard to the sauce mixture for added depth. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, substitute the apricot preserves with peach or mango preserves. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated for even cooking, and turn it occasionally for optimal browning. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Au Gratin as a side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet And Sour Red Chicken on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley and orange slices for a pop of color. Complement the dish with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with Asparagus Divine for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sweet And Sour Red Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Red Chicken contains roughly 260 calories, with 27g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (141% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% 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, you can use boneless chicken, but adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking. Boneless thighs or breasts will cook faster, so check them after 30-40 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for Russian salad dressing?
If you don't have Russian salad dressing, a mixture of equal parts ketchup and mayonnaise can work as a substitute. You can also use Italian dressing or a homemade version with vinegar, oil, and spices for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a spicy kick, include some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You could also marinate the chicken in spicy mustard before baking for an extra layer of flavor. Adjust the heat to your preference!
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).