Frank Perdue'S Favorite Sweet 'N Smoky Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A flavorful roasted chicken dish glazed with sweet maple syrup and smoky ketchup, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings craving bold, savory-sweet flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 lb. chicken, cut up
  • 1/2 tsp. hickory smoked salt
  • 1/8 tsp. fresh ground pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 Tbsp. cider vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place onion slices in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
  3. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer, skin side up, on top of the onions.
  4. Sprinkle hickory smoked salt and fresh ground pepper over the chicken.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika in place of hickory smoked salt if you don't have it. You can also add garlic powder for an extra depth of flavor. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cut chicken pieces. This recipe can be modified by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or alongside roasted potatoes for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad pairs beautifully with this dish and adds a refreshing contrast. For a comforting side, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. This recipe also fits well within a rotation of delicious American recipes.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover 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, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps retain the chicken's moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Frank Perdue'S Favorite Sweet 'N Smoky Chicken contains roughly 1018 calories, with 18g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1381mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).

1018 kcal 51% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.4g 37% DV
Total Fat 49.7g 64% DV
Carbs 132.4g 48% DV
Fiber 14.1g 50% DV
Sugar 18.3g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1381.2mg 60% DV
Potassium 814.7mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 3.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 86mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 9.2mg 10% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 236.5mg 18% DV
Iron 6.9mg 38% 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 for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but cooking time may need adjustment. Boneless cuts typically cook faster, so check for doneness at around 25-30 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and onion layers in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

If you don't have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can work as alternatives, though they will slightly change the flavor profile. For a less sweet option, consider using brown sugar mixed with a bit of water to achieve a syrup-like consistency.

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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