BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw

BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw is a delightful recipe that combines the smoky and savory flavors of barbecue chicken with the crisp, sweet, and tangy elements of a cabbage and pear slaw. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate a meal that delivers a symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you're planning a summer barbecue, a cozy winter dinner, or simply looking for a nutritious and delicious meal option, this recipe is sure to impress.

History

The concept of pairing grilled or barbecued meat with a refreshing slaw has its roots in traditional American cuisine, particularly in the Southern United States. Barbecue (BBQ) chicken, known for its smoky flavor and tender texture, has been a staple in American cooking for centuries. The addition of a cabbage slaw dates back to the early 18th century when German immigrants in the United States introduced their traditional cabbage dishes. Over time, these two elements were combined, leading to the creation of recipes like BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw, which offers a modern twist on classic flavors.

Ingredients

3 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp milk
2 tbsp cider vinegar
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
0.13 tsp celery seeds
1 tbsp + 0.25 cup barbecue sauce
8 oz (227 g) bag shredded red cabbage
8 oz (227 g) bag shredded carrots
2 large pears, cut in thin strips
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves or (4 chicken drumsticks)
0.25 tsp black pepper

How to prepare

Blend together mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, sugar, 0.5 tsp of salt, celery seeds, and 1 tbsp of BBQ sauce.
In a large bowl, mix cabbage, carrots, and pears.
Top the mixture with the mayonnaise mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.
Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Place chicken breasts (or chicken drumsticks) on a rack over a baking sheet.
Transfer 2 tbsp of barbecue sauce to a bowl. Brush each breast with the remaining barbecue sauce, then sprinkle with the remaining salt and pepper.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove from the oven and spoon the reserved BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts. Serve hot.

Variations

1. For a spicier kick, add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
2. Substitute apples for pears for a different flavor profile.
3. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the slaw for added crunch and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. For the juiciest chicken, marinate it in the barbecue sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.

2. When preparing the slaw, ensure the cabbage and carrots are shredded finely for the best texture. Adding thinly sliced pears gives a sweet crunch that balances the tangy dressing.

3. To achieve a smoky flavor in the oven, consider adding a touch of liquid smoke to your barbecue sauce.

4. Let the slaw sit for at least two hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly, creating a better texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served fresh, with the chicken hot from the oven and the slaw chilled from the refrigerator. It pairs well with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a simple quinoa salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken in the oven is a simple and effective way to achieve a tender and flavorful result. For the slaw, no cooking is required, but proper mixing and allowing it to rest are key techniques for the best flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Vegan mayonnaise and plant-based milk can be used for a dairy-free version.

2. Honey or maple syrup can replace sugar for a natural sweetener option.

3. Any type of barbecue sauce can be used, depending on your flavor preference.

Make Ahead Tips

The slaw can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The chicken can be marinated overnight to save time and enhance flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chicken on a platter, surrounded by the colorful slaw. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a cold beer complements the flavors of this dish perfectly. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea would be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a suitable option for those looking for a nutrient-dense, yet calorie-controlled meal.

Carbohydrates

This recipe provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the pears and the sugar in the dressing and barbecue sauce. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 20 grams. The dietary fiber from the cabbage, carrots, and pears contributes to this total, making it a balanced option for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the mayonnaise used in the slaw dressing. Each serving contains about 10 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Using a light or reduced-fat mayonnaise can lower the fat content without significantly altering the taste or texture of the slaw.

Proteins

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and this recipe provides about 25 grams of protein per serving. The high protein content makes it a satisfying meal that supports muscle repair and growth. For an even leaner option, skinless chicken breasts can be used instead of drumsticks.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables and fruits used. The cabbage and carrots are high in vitamin K, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, while pears provide additional vitamin C and potassium. These nutrients support immune function, vision health, and bone strength.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe include eggs (from the mayonnaise) and dairy (from the milk). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients can find suitable substitutes, such as vegan mayonnaise and plant-based milk, to accommodate their dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw is a balanced meal that offers a good mix of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a main course.

Summary

BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the best of savory and sweet. With its nutritious ingredients and balanced profile, it's a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a warm summer day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that my mother had passed down to me. As I turned the pages, a colorful picture caught my eye - BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw. The combination of flavors and textures intrigued me, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I had always been passionate about cooking, and over the years, I had collected a wide variety of recipes from friends, family, and even strangers. Each recipe told a story, a journey of flavors and traditions that had been passed down through generations. This one, in particular, stood out to me because of its unique blend of sweet and savory elements.

I decided to make the dish for a family gathering that weekend. I gathered all the ingredients - chicken thighs, BBQ sauce, cabbage, pears, and a few other key ingredients - and got to work in the kitchen. As I marinated the chicken in the homemade BBQ sauce, the sweet aroma filled the air, and I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation.

While the chicken cooked on the grill, I prepared the cabbage and pear slaw. I thinly sliced the cabbage and pears, then tossed them together with a tangy dressing made from vinegar, honey, and a touch of mustard. The flavors mingled together beautifully, creating a crunchy and refreshing side dish that would perfectly complement the rich and smoky chicken.

When the BBQ chicken was finally done, I plated it alongside the slaw and brought it out to the table. The looks of delight on my family's faces as they took their first bites made all the effort worth it. The chicken was juicy and tender, with a sticky glaze that glistened in the sunlight. The slaw added a burst of freshness and brightness to each bite, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

As we sat around the table, enjoying our meal together, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. This recipe had come into my life at just the right moment, bringing with it a sense of joy and connection that only food can provide. It was a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together, to create memories and traditions that would last a lifetime.

Over the years, I have made BBQ Chicken with Cabbage and Pear Slaw many times, each time adding my own twist or variation to make it my own. But no matter how many times I make it, the recipe always brings me back to that first moment of discovery, that sense of excitement and anticipation that comes with trying something new and delicious.

As I sit here, writing this story and reflecting on all the recipes that have filled my life with flavor and love, I am grateful for the gift of cooking and sharing meals with those I hold dear. And I hope that this recipe, like so many others, will continue to bring joy and connection to all who taste it.