Slim Pickin Chicken
Savory baked chicken infused with orange soda and seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, perfect for a flavorful, family-friendly dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove all fat and skin from chicken parts.
- Sprinkle chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rest chicken in refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Pour orange soda into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Lay chicken pieces side by side in the pan.
- Bake at 375°F for 40 minutes on one side.
- Turn chicken pieces and brown on the other side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the mixture of garlic powder, salt, and pepper overnight. If you don't have orange soda, a mix of orange juice and a bit of carbonated water can work as a substitute. Make sure to remove excess moisture from the chicken for better browning. This recipe is also a great way to use leftover chicken in dishes like Poor Man'S Foie De Gras.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Slim Pickin Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Yummy Buffet Potatoes, which add a comforting touch. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with a light fruit salad or some rice to soak up the delicious sauce from the baking pan.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Slim Pickin Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the chicken moist and prevents it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Slim Pickin Chicken contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% 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 boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. Boneless chicken cooks faster, so keeping an eye on it will help prevent dryness.
What should I do if I don't have orange soda?
If you don't have orange soda, you can substitute it with an equal amount of orange juice mixed with a splash of lemon-lime soda or sparkling water. This will give you a similar sweetness and carbonation that helps to keep the chicken moist during baking.
Can I add vegetables to the baking pan?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the baking pan can enhance the dish. Just cut them into even pieces and add them alongside the chicken before baking. They will absorb the flavors and create a delicious side dish.
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).