Chicken In Barbecue Sauce
Juicy chicken simmered in a smoky, sweet barbecue sauce with a hint of mustard and onion, perfect for casual family dinners or summer cookouts. The rich flavors meld beautifully, making this dish a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with sides like coleslaw or cornbread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute minced onion in butter in a large skillet until tender.
- Add ketchup, dry mustard, salt, brown sugar, and water to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the cut-up chicken or fryer pieces to the skillet and cover with a lid.
- Cook over medium heat for 45 minutes, turning the chicken once during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke in the barbecue sauce. If you're out of brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can serve as a suitable substitute. For a spicier kick, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce can elevate the dish. This recipe can also be adapted to use different proteins, like pork or tofu, for variety.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken in Barbecue Sauce pairs beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or over rice. A simple green salad can also balance the richness of the dish. For a twist, try it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps for a casual lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken in barbecue sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, and cover with a lid. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken In Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 513 calories, with 7g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 724mg per serving (31% 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 boneless chicken breasts instead of cut-up fryer?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts can be used and will cook faster than fryer pieces. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, checking for doneness after about 30 minutes to ensure they don't dry out.
What kind of ketchup is best for this recipe?
Regular tomato ketchup works well, but for a more gourmet flavor, consider using a specialty ketchup such as organic or gourmet varieties that include additional spices or flavors. This can enhance the overall taste of the barbecue sauce.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Cook the chicken in the sauce, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
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).