Barbecue Chicken In Sack

Prep: 10 min Cook: 150 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Tender, smoky barbecue chicken baked in a sack with a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce—perfect for summer cookouts and family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. catsup
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 3 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 Tbsp. water
  • 2 Tbsp. melted shortening
  • 3 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • 1 tsp. dry or prepared mustard
  • 3 lb. fryer chicken

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients except chicken and heat; need not cook.
  2. Place pieces of fryer chicken on waxed paper; salt and pepper.
  3. Dip chicken in the sauce.
  4. Place chicken in an oven cooking bag.
  5. Pour remaining sauce over the chicken.
  6. Close the sack tightly and place in a pan in case of breaking.
  7. Bake in a 350°F oven for 2 to 2 1/2 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. You can also adjust the spices to your liking, adding more chili powder for heat or even some garlic powder for additional depth. Make sure to use a sturdy oven bag to prevent any leaks during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this barbecue chicken alongside coleslaw or cornbread for a classic American meal. It also pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. For an easy weeknight dinner, consider serving with sides like roasted vegetables or baked beans, which complement the flavors well.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover barbecue chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag, where it can last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Chicken In Sack contains roughly 100 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1537mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).

100 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.9g 4% DV
Total Fat 4.2g 5% DV
Carbs 16.6g 6% DV
Fiber 3.8g 14% DV
Sugar 11g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1537.1mg 67% DV
Potassium 269.3mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 0.8mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 175.4mcg 19% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Calcium 47.9mg 4% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 frozen chicken for this recipe?

It's best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but if you're short on time, you can cook frozen chicken. Just increase the baking time by 50% and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

What kind of oven bag should I use?

Use a heavy-duty oven cooking bag designed for roasting. These bags can withstand high temperatures and help keep the chicken moist. Avoid using regular plastic bags, as they may not be heat-resistant.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the chicken instead! Marinate as instructed, then grill over medium heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked. This method adds a wonderful smoky flavor that pairs well with the barbecue sauce.

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).

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