Chicken In A Sack
Juicy, flavorful chicken cooked in paper bags with barbecue or chili sauce, resulting in tender meat with a smoky taste, perfect for casual family dinners or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- About 2 hours ahead, heat the oven to 375°F.
- Rub the inside and outside of each paper bag with salad oil.
- Cover each chicken with barbecue sauce or a mixture of chili and barbecue sauces, then pour some inside the cavity of each chicken.
- Place a chicken inside each prepared paper bag.
- Place the bags side by side in a roasting or broiler pan.
- Close the ends of each paper bag with wooden clothespins.
- Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider marinating the chickens in the barbecue sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you want a spicier kick, mix in some chili powder or hot sauce with the barbecue sauce. You can also use parchment paper bags instead of brown paper bags for a cleaner cooking environment.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken with a side of Snow Biscuits for a comforting meal. A fresh salad or Squash And Potatoes complements the dish nicely, adding color and nutrition. A drizzle of additional barbecue sauce or a tangy dipping sauce can enhance the flavor profile and appeal to guests.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain moisture and flavor without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken In A Sack contains roughly 1159 calories, with 66g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (133% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and potassium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other types of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use other meats like turkey or even game hens, but cooking times may vary. Make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the size and type of meat to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
What should I do if I can't find brown paper bags?
If brown paper bags are not available, you can use parchment paper or aluminum foil as a substitute. Just ensure that they are well oiled to prevent sticking and that they are sealed tightly to retain steam during cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor cooking?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for outdoor cooking by using a grill. Wrap the chickens in oiled aluminum foil instead of paper bags and place them on the grill over indirect heat for about 1.5 hours, turning occasionally for even cooking.
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).