Paper Bag Barbecue Chicken
Juicy barbecue chicken baked in a paper bag for tender, flavorful results with smoky sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Open a heavy paper bag with no holes in it and place it in a large baking pan on its side.
- Brush melted vegetable shortening over the inside of the bag with a pastry brush, covering well.
- Place the chicken pieces, skin up, in a single layer on the bottom of the bag.
- Spoon barbecue sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Fold the open end of the bag over twice to close it.
- Secure the closure with paper clips.
- Place the pan in a cold oven.
- Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes without opening the bag during cooking.
- Remove the pan from the oven.
- Slit open the top of the bag carefully.
- Remove the chicken pieces to a platter.
- Spoon any extra sauce from the bag over the chicken and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce overnight before cooking. If you don't have vegetable shortening, you can substitute it with olive oil or melted butter. Ensure the paper bag is heavy-duty to prevent tearing. For added smokiness, consider mixing in some smoked paprika or using a smoky barbecue sauce. This technique works well with other chicken recipes too, such as Baked Chicken Breast Supreme.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this barbecue chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a true American recipes experience. It also pairs beautifully with Aunt Connie's Potato Casserole for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad to balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover barbecue chicken can 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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paper Bag Barbecue Chicken contains roughly 1126 calories, with 47g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (95% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2421mg per serving (105% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
It's best to use thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before preparing it. This way, the chicken will cook thoroughly and absorb the barbecue flavors better.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
Choose a barbecue sauce that suits your taste—sweet, tangy, or spicy. Homemade sauces can elevate the dish, or you can opt for your favorite store-bought brand. For a unique twist, try a jalapeno-glazed version to add some heat.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can adapt this method for other meats like pork or turkey. Adjust the cooking time based on the type and size of the meat. For example, if using a whole turkey or a larger cut, you may need to increase the cooking time significantly.
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).