Coca-Cola Barbecue Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 90 min Cuisine: American

Juicy chicken slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy Coca-Cola and ketchup glaze, perfect for casual dinners and gatherings with rich flavors appealing to all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1 chicken, cut up
  • 1 1/2 large onions
  • 10 to 12 oz Coca-Cola
  • 10 to 12 oz ketchup

Instructions

  1. Lay the chicken pieces in a baking dish.
  2. Slice onions on top of the chicken.
  3. Mix Coca-Cola and ketchup in a bowl.
  4. Pour the mixture over the chicken and onions.
  5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1.5 hours or until the chicken is done.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, marinate the chicken in the Coca-Cola and ketchup mixture for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavor. You can substitute the Coca-Cola with root beer for a different taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or chili powder to the mixture. Make sure to check the chicken's internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Coca-Cola barbecue chicken alongside creamy potato casserole or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Tasty green beans or corn on the cob would also complement the dish well. For a fun twist, shred the leftover chicken and use it in tacos or sandwiches. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Coca-Cola barbecue chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals until hot.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Coca-Cola Barbecue Chicken contains roughly 730 calories, with 13g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1307mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).

730 kcal 36% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.2g 26% DV
Total Fat 36.1g 46% DV
Carbs 91.8g 33% DV
Fiber 5.6g 20% DV
Sugar 18.2g 36% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1306.6mg 57% DV
Potassium 431.8mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 7.7mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 5mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 82.9mg 6% DV
Iron 3.3mg 18% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 instead of cut-up chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless pieces may cook faster. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the safe temperature of 165°F.

What can I serve with Coca-Cola barbecue chicken?

Coca-Cola barbecue chicken pairs beautifully with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. You can also serve it with a refreshing salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Is this recipe suitable for a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Place the chicken and onions in the slow cooker, pour the Coca-Cola and ketchup mixture over the top, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

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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