Barbecue Chicken Or Ribs
Juicy barbecued chicken or ribs coated in a tangy, sweet tomato-based sauce, perfect for summer cookouts and family gatherings, offering bold flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients; bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes.
- Rub chicken or spareribs with butter.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake at 350° until brown.
- Pour sauce over and continue baking for 45 minutes to 1 hour, basting occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. If you're out of celery seed, celery salt can be a great substitute, just reduce the added salt. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or honey, depending on your taste. For a kick, try adding a teaspoon of hot sauce to the mix. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a Fresh Spinach Salad Dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue chicken or ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or Skillet Hot Slaw for a delightful meal. Adding a side of baked beans can enhance the barbecue experience, and a refreshing iceberg pickles can provide a crunchy contrast. Drizzle extra sauce over the meat before serving for added flavor, and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbecue chicken or ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to keep moisture in. For best results, reheat with some of the sauce to keep the meat flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Chicken Or Ribs contains roughly 73 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 664mg per serving (29% 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 this sauce for other meats?
Absolutely! This barbecue sauce works great with pork, beef, or even on grilled vegetables for a flavorful vegetarian option. It can also be adapted for vegan recipes by using plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat or protein you choose.
Is it possible to make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day or two in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to use, simply reheat on the stove before pouring it over your chicken or ribs. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find the sauce is too thick after simmering, you can easily thin it out by adding a little more water or vinegar until it reaches your desired consistency. Just be cautious not to dilute the flavor too much. A splash of apple cider vinegar can also add a nice tang if you're looking to enhance the flavor profile.
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).