Try this Crockpot Root Beer Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
- Carbohydrate 133.212323047097 g
- Cholesterol 526.1671492 mg
- Fat 12.5794154242542 g
- Fiber 3.54981992925085 g
- Protein 211.269227911194 g
- Saturated Fat 3.08730729907471 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1423g)
- Sodium 1019.93161337064 mg
- Sugar 129.662503117846 g
- Trans Fat 3.21503678958459 g
- Calories 1548 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine dry ingredients and sprinkle mixture on each chicken breast and place in crock pot.
- Pour in Root Beer and barbecue sauce.
- Cook on low heat setting for 6-8 hours.
- Shred the chicken and return to sauce to cook for another 30 minutes.
The Chemistry of Soda Braises
Carbonated beverages have long served as tenderizing agents in American home cooking, relying on mild acidity to break down connective tissue over prolonged heat. Root beer specifically brings sassafras, wintergreen, and vanilla notes that merge with tomatoes and molasses typically found in bottled barbecue sauce. When pairing commercial condiments with carbonated beverages, monitor the sodium levels closely because prepared sauces often contain high amounts of salt that concentrate as liquids reduce.
Adapting for Dietary Needs
Modifying this preparation for restricted diets requires examining the constituent labels of both the soda and the condiment. Standard sodas rely on high-fructose corn syrup, which can be swapped for cane sugar versions or diet formulations depending on glycemic requirements. Barbecue sauces frequently hide gluten within soy sauce additives or thickeners, making certified gluten-free or tamari-based alternatives essential when cooking for celiac guests.
Assessing Doneness and Texture
Slow cookers maintain a steady internal environment between 190 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit on the low setting. Testing poultry without an insertion thermometer involves probing the meat with a standard dining fork; once the fibers yield entirely and pull apart with zero resistance, the protein is ready to shred. Return the shredded meat to the simmering liquid for precisely 30 minutes to absorb maximum moisture before serving.
