Barbecue Sauce For Chicken

Prep: 10 min Cook: 135 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

This homemade barbecue sauce is rich and flavorful, perfect for slathering over chicken. The combination of butter, tomato ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce creates a tangy and slightly sweet profile, while chili powder adds a hint of spice. Ideal for family gatherings or backyard cookouts, this sauce elevates any chicken dish.

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Ingredients

  • 1 stick butter
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 3/4 c. tomato ketchup
  • 2 small onions, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 3/4 c. water
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Simmer the ingredients in a heavy skillet for 45 minutes.
  2. Pour the sauce over cut-up chicken and cook slowly in the oven uncovered for 2 to 3 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for heat. You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter version. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. This barbecue sauce also works well with beef or pork, making it versatile for various protein options.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecue chicken with classic sides like coleslaw or corn muffins for a delightful meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Macaroons for dessert, creating a satisfying contrast of flavors. You can also serve it with a fresh garden salad for a lighter option or alongside baked beans for a hearty combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens, you can add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency before using it again.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Sauce For Chicken contains roughly 169 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 487mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

169 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.1g 4% DV
Total Fat 10.1g 13% DV
Carbs 18.2g 7% DV
Fiber 2.3g 8% DV
Sugar 4.7g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 487mg 21% DV
Potassium 151.5mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 15mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 13.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Calcium 44.4mg 3% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 for this sauce?

Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for the regular vinegar. Each will impart a unique flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your barbecue sauce.

How can I make this sauce sweeter?

To increase the sweetness, you can add brown sugar or honey. Start with a tablespoon and adjust to your taste. This will balance the acidity of the vinegar and enhance the overall flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the barbecue sauce. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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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