Barbecue Chicken Rankin Style

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

A flavorful barbecue chicken dish with tangy vinegar and lemon notes, enhanced by rich Worcestershire and Heinz 57 sauce, perfect for outdoor gatherings and family feasts.

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Ingredients

  • 3 chickens
  • 1 large onion
  • 1 cup lemon juice
  • 4 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 1 pound margarine
  • 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 bottle Heinz 57 sauce
  • Tabasco sauce
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. Split the chickens down the back and prepare a basting mop.
  2. Coarsely chop the large onion.
  3. Mix lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, margarine, Worcestershire sauce, Heinz 57 sauce, Tabasco, salt, and pepper to create the basting mixture.
  4. Use the basting mop to brush the mixture onto the chickens as they cook.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, marinate the chickens in the basting mixture for a few hours or overnight. If you prefer a spicy kick, add more Tabasco sauce to the basting mix. You can substitute butter for margarine if desired, and feel free to use any vinegar you have on hand for a unique twist. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecue chicken with classic sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob for a delightful meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Mrs. London'S Vegetable Soup for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Spiced Chicken Drummettes for a varied chicken feast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Chicken Rankin Style contains roughly 795 calories, with 14g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2268mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).

795 kcal 40% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.8g 28% DV
Total Fat 40.2g 52% DV
Carbs 94.7g 34% DV
Fiber 8.4g 30% DV
Sugar 16.6g 33% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2268.2mg 99% DV
Potassium 804.8mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 6.3mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 68.8mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 70.5mg 78% DV
Calcium 169.2mg 13% DV
Iron 5.1mg 29% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can use white vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar if you prefer a different flavor profile. Each type of vinegar will impart its unique taste to the chickens, so choose one that complements your palate.

What’s the best way to ensure the chicken is juicy?

To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Basting frequently with the mixture helps maintain moisture and adds flavor.

Can I cook this recipe on a grill?

Absolutely! This recipe works excellently on a grill. Prepare your grill for indirect heat cooking and baste the chickens as they cook. Grilling will give the chicken a beautiful smoky flavor and crispy skin.

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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