4 Ingredient Chicken
Have you ever found yourself in need of a quick yet delicious dinner idea that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients? Let me introduce you to the 4 Ingredient Chicken recipe that will not only make your taste buds dance but also become a staple in your kitchen. This simple marinade might just be your new best friend when it comes to preparing mouth-watering chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this 4 Ingredient Chicken! First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The marinade is a delightful blend of flavors that transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that rock-hard brown sugar sitting in your pantry. And did I mention the effortless cleanup? What’s not to love?
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cup
- Basting brush
- Oven
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs (bone-in with skin preferred)
- 1 package dry French onion soup mix
- 1 (8 oz) bottle of Russian dressing (Wishbone recommended)
- 1 small jar of apricot preserves (approximately 1 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dry French onion soup mix, Russian dressing, and apricot preserves. Stir until well mixed.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking pan and sprinkle with pepper. There’s no need to add extra salt.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Roast the chicken in the oven, uncovered, for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Baste with the marinade several times during cooking to keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Tips for Success
- For best results, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Feel free to experiment with different cuts of chicken, such as drumsticks or breasts, based on your preference.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the marinade for an extra burst of flavor. You can also substitute peach preserves for apricot for a slightly different taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts? Yes, but keep in mind that bone-in, skin-on chicken tends to be juicier and more flavorful.
Can I freeze the chicken after it’s cooked? Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer.
What can I serve with this chicken? It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice.
Conclusion
This 4 Ingredient Chicken recipe is simplicity at its best, combining ease of preparation with outstanding taste. I invite you to try it for your next meal and experience the magic for yourself. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative variations you try. Happy cooking!