Transform your weeknight dinners with this irresistibly flavorful "Diet Cola Chicken My Way," a unique twist on a classic one-pan meal. This recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a tangy, sweet-savory sauce made from an unexpected yet delightful blend of diet cola, reduced-sugar ketchup, and low-sodium soy sauce. Infused with the rich aromatics of sautéed onions and garlic, and enhanced by a touch of smoked paprika, this dish strikes the perfect balance of health-conscious ingredients and bold flavors. Ready in just 45 minutes, it's an ideal choice for busy schedules and fits seamlessly into low-carb or calorie-controlled meal plans. Serve it with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables or fluffy rice, and don't forget the fresh parsley garnish for a pop of color and freshness. Diet cola chicken has never been this deliciously satisfying!
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides.
Sear the chicken in the hot olive oil for about 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Return the chicken breasts to the pan, arranging them evenly.
In a small bowl, combine the diet cola, ketchup, and soy sauce. Whisk until well mixed.
Pour the cola mixture over the chicken, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered by the sauce.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, turning the chicken once halfway through cooking.
Remove the lid and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm. Pair with steamed vegetables, rice, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
Calories |
1556 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 39.6 g | 51% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.2 g | 46% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 592 mg | 197% | |
| Sodium | 4952 mg | 215% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 68.9 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.8 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 48.3 g | ||
| Protein | 222.5 g | 445% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.3 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 148 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 9.7 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 2891 mg | 62% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.