Barbecued Bird

Prep: 720 min Cuisine: American

Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce with bold flavors like Worcestershire, lemon, and cumin, perfect for summer barbecues and gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 frying chickens, cut up
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon lemon powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients and marinate the chicken pieces in a plastic bag or well-covered bowl overnight.
  2. Refrigerate and turn the chicken pieces occasionally during marination.
  3. When ready to cook, arrange the marinated chicken pieces on the grill.
  4. Cook until the chicken is done and juices run clear.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade. If you don't have tomato juice, using a mix of crushed tomatoes and water works well as a substitute. For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika. Marinating for longer than overnight can intensify the flavor even more if time allows.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued chicken with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a delightful meal. It also pairs beautifully with Nutted Wild Rice Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider adding a drizzle of barbecue sauce on top before serving for an extra kick, and don't forget to have some fresh lemon wedges on the side.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover barbecued chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Bird contains roughly 295 calories, with 10g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (186% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

295 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.8g 20% DV
Total Fat 12.4g 16% DV
Carbs 45.3g 16% DV
Fiber 5.6g 20% DV
Sugar 17.2g 34% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 274mg 12% DV
Potassium 1049.8mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 33.2mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 4.5mg 5% DV
Calcium 476.9mg 37% DV
Iron 33.5mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber 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 grill the chicken instead of barbecuing it?

Absolutely! Grilling works wonderfully for this recipe. Just ensure that your grill is preheated, and keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from burning, adjusting the heat as necessary.

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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