Juicy, flavorful, and finger-licking good, Dr Pepper Chicken is a sweet and savory delight that's sure to impress! This easy skillet recipe combines tender, seared chicken thighs with a rich, tangy sauce made from ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and the star ingredient—Dr Pepper. The soda adds a unique caramelized depth that perfectly complements the smoky paprika and sautéed onions. Ready in just 50 minutes, this one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Garnished with fresh parsley and best served over rice, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad, Dr Pepper Chicken is the ultimate comfort food with a modern twist. Keywords: Dr Pepper Chicken recipe, easy skillet chicken, sweet and savory chicken, weeknight dinner ideas.
Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dr Pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld together.
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over the chicken.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken cook in the sauce for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Remove the lid and let the sauce cook for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad.
Calories |
1488 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 72.5 g | 93% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.4 g | 82% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 500 mg | 167% | |
| Sodium | 3233 mg | 141% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 98.7 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 78.5 g | ||
| Protein | 109.2 g | 218% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 140 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 5.7 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 1396 mg | 30% | |
*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.