Virginia'S Chicken
Savory chicken breasts glazed with sweet apricot preserves, spicy Russian dressing, and onion soup for a comforting, slightly tangy dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the red Russian dressing, Lipton onion soup mix, and apricot preserves in a bowl and stir until fully blended.
- Place the split chicken breasts in the mixture, ensuring they are fully coated, cover, and refrigerate overnight to marinate.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, marinate the chicken breasts overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. If you can't find red Russian dressing, a mix of Russian dressing and a bit of vinegar can work well. You can also substitute the apricot preserves with peach or mango preserves for a different flavor profile. Ensure the chicken is fully coated to optimize flavor absorption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Virginia's Chicken over a bed of rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Jan's Hashbrown Casserole as a hearty side dish. For a fresh crunch, consider a side salad with a light vinaigrette. This dish is also excellent for meal prep, as it can be enjoyed in sandwiches or wraps the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Virginia's Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it on medium power, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia'S Chicken contains roughly 505 calories, with 26g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 685mg per serving (30% 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 breasts instead of whole ones?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute. They will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time accordingly. You may want to check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). The marinade will still impart great flavor, making it an excellent choice for quicker meals.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just ensure it's in a freezer-safe bag or container, and when you're ready to cook it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows for a convenient meal option that’s ready to go when you need it.
What can I do with leftover marinade?
While it's not recommended to reuse the marinade directly for dipping due to raw chicken contamination, you can simmer it in a saucepan for a few minutes to kill any bacteria. Once cooked, use it as a sauce to drizzle over the chicken or your side dishes, adding extra flavor to your meal.
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).