Red Chicken
Red Chicken features tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet cherry and barbecue sauce combo, creating a flavorful dish with a balance of smoky, fruity, and savory notes. Perfect for a hearty dinner that pairs well with noodles, this recipe appeals to those who enjoy bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Broil the chicken breasts in an electric skillet for 20 minutes on each side at 250° to 300°.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet.
- Add the pitted dark sweet cherries and barbecue sauce to the skillet.
- Heat the mixture and then return the chicken to the skillet.
- Cook for 30 minutes or longer until heated through and flavors meld.
- Serve the chicken over cooked noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using a chipotle barbecue sauce instead of regular. If you don't have dark sweet cherries, canned peaches or apples can work in a pinch. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. If desired, marinate the chicken in the barbecue sauce for an hour before broiling for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the red chicken over a bed of cooked noodles or rice for a hearty meal. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pairs nicely, enhancing the dish's sweetness. For a creative twist, consider serving it with a side of the Wild Chicken Salad for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional barbecue sauce to keep it moist, and cover until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Chicken contains roughly 413 calories, with 37g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 739mg per serving (32% 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 breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, be sure to thaw them completely before broiling to ensure even cooking. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach the proper temperature.
What barbecue sauce works best for this dish?
A tangy or sweet barbecue sauce complements the cherries beautifully. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for a sauce that includes chipotle or cayenne. Feel free to experiment with flavors to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply combine and reheat on the stovetop. This makes for a quick meal during busy weeknights.
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).