Salsa and Coke Chicken
Satisfy your cravings with the bold and unexpected flavors of Salsa and Coke Chicken—an easy-to-make dish that delivers tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a savory, slightly sweet, and mildly spiced sauce. This unique recipe combines the tangy zest of jarred salsa with the caramelized sweetness of Coca-Cola, creating a rich and flavorful glaze that clings perfectly to the chicken. Seasoned with paprika, garlic, and a touch of olive oil, this one-pan wonder is both quick to prepare and a breeze to clean up, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Simmered to perfection in just 45 minutes, this dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish, and watch this crowd-pleasing recipe become a new family favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin removed)
- 16 ounces jarred salsa (mild, medium, or hot to your preference)
- 12 ounces Coca-Cola
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
Sear the chicken thighs in the hot oil until golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the Coca-Cola and salsa, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, making sure they are partially submerged in the sauce.
Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer on low heat for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Remove the lid for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings, if needed.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving, if desired. Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
485 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.5 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.8 g | 29% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 169 mg | 56% | |
| Sodium | 1321 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.5 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.1 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.7 g | ||
| Protein | 48.6 g | 97% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 47 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 744 mg | 16% | |
*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.
