Tab Chicken
Tab Chicken is a flavorful and tender dish featuring seasoned chicken thighs cooked in ketchup and Tab soda, offering a sweet, tangy, and savory profile perfect for casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove skins from chicken thighs.
- Place chicken in an electric frypan set to 250°F (approximately 120°C). Season with salt and pepper.
- Heavily sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Coat chicken with ketchup.
- Turn pieces over and repeat seasoning and ketchup coating.
- Pour in enough Tab soda to bring the fluid level even with the top of the chicken pieces.
- Cover the frypan.
- Cook for approximately 45 minutes, turning pieces frequently with a spatula. The fluid will thicken and coat the chicken when done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the ketchup and Tab soda mixture for a few hours before cooking. If you don’t have Tab soda, any lemon-lime soda can be a suitable substitute. Additionally, consider adding some chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tab Chicken with a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can complement the dish nicely. For a heartier meal, pair it with Mid-Eastern Lentil Soup for a balanced dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it, covered, in short intervals to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tab Chicken contains roughly 91 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (276% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% 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 thighs instead of skin-on?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Just be mindful that they may cook faster than bone-in thighs, so check for doneness a little earlier. The flavor will still be delicious, especially with the ketchup and soda mixture.
Is it necessary to remove the skin from the chicken?
Removing the skin is optional but recommended for a healthier dish. It allows the flavors from the seasonings and sauce to penetrate the meat better. If you prefer crispy skin, you can leave it on and adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you're looking for a substitute for ketchup, consider using barbecue sauce for a smokier flavor or a homemade sauce made from tomato paste, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. Both alternatives will still yield a tasty result in this recipe.
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).