Chicken-N-A-Poke Barbecue

Prep: 10 min Cook: 105 min Cuisine: American

Juicy, flavorful barbecue chicken cooked in a seasoned sauce inside a paper sack, perfect for casual gatherings and lovers of smoky, tangy flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. chicken, cut up
  • 3 Tbsp. catsup
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 Tbsp. water
  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • 3 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. dry mustard
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Mix and heat all ingredients except chicken.
  2. Grease the inside of a medium-sized heavy paper sack and place it in a roaster pan.
  3. Salt and pepper the chicken, dip it in the sauce, and place it in the sack along with the remaining sauce.
  4. Carefully fold the sack in a drugstore fold so as not to leak.
  5. Cover the roaster and cook for 15 minutes at 500°F.
  6. Lower the temperature to 350°F and cook for 1 1/2 hours.
  7. Do not open the sack until the full cooking time is completed.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. Ensure that the paper sack is well-greased to prevent sticking. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños to the chicken before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken directly from the sack for a fun presentation, and pair it with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans. It also goes well with cornbread or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Nettie'S Potatoes for a comforting touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This will help retain moisture and keep the chicken tender.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chicken-N-A-Poke Barbecue contains roughly 428 calories, with 6g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).

428 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.5g 11% DV
Total Fat 5.1g 7% DV
Carbs 82.3g 30% DV
Fiber 8.6g 31% DV
Sugar 62.5g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 648.3mg 28% DV
Potassium 993mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 4.4mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 546.4mcg 61% DV
Vitamin C 6.4mg 7% DV
Calcium 164.8mg 13% DV
Iron 6.9mg 38% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
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 boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but be mindful of the cooking time. Boneless pieces will cook faster, so check for doneness after about an hour at 350°F to avoid drying them out.

What can I serve with Chicken-N-A-Poke?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with classic barbecue sides like baked beans and coleslaw, or for something different, serve it with a light Chicken Salad With Bacon for a refreshing contrast.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, you can freeze cooked Chicken-N-A-Poke. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

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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