Wonder Chicken
Wonder Chicken features tender chicken baked in a sweet and savory apricot glaze with a tangy Russian salad dressing and onion soup mix, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces skin side up in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Combine apricot preserves, Russian salad dressing, and onion soup mix, then spoon the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered at 300°F for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in the apricot preserves and Russian dressing mixture for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have Russian salad dressing, a mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce can work as a substitute. This recipe is quite forgiving, so feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste preference. Pair it with rice, like Vivian'S Rice, for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Wonder Chicken alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with creamy sides, such as Deluxe Squash Casserole. Consider adding some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Wonder Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and place the chicken in a baking dish, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wonder Chicken contains roughly 1131 calories, with 8g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 105g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2899mg per serving (126% of the Daily Value).
* % 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 will generally take less time to cook, so start checking for doneness around the 1.5-hour mark to ensure they don't dry out.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken beforehand?
While marinating enhances the flavor, it's not necessary. The cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. If you're short on time, you can skip this step and still achieve a tasty result.
What can I do with the leftover sauce?
Leftover sauce can be used as a glaze for vegetables or drizzled over rice. It also makes a great base for a quick stir-fry or as a dressing for salads, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to your dishes.
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).