Description
Diet Coke Chicken features tender boneless thighs simmered in a smoky tomato sauce sweetened naturally with Diet Coke, seasoned with smoked paprika and a hint of cayenne. It’s a perfect one-pan dinner for busy weeknights or a comforting meal to serve with roasted potatoes.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup chicken broth, low-sodium recommended
- 1 6-ounce can tomato paste, for a rich, deep base
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided between seasoning and sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper, divided between seasoning and sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional, for a gentle kick
- 1 12-ounce can Diet Coke
- 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs, about 2 pounds total
- 1 tablespoon fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped, optional garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the thighs dry and sprinkle both sides with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Brown the Chicken: Place the thighs in a large nonstick skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden.
- Whisk the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk the chicken broth, tomato paste, smoked paprika, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and cayenne until smooth. Slowly pour in the Diet Coke, stirring gently to avoid foaming over.
- Simmer the Chicken: Pour the sauce over the chicken, bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook about 20 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Thicken the Sauce: Uncover and simmer 5 minutes more, spooning the sauce over the chicken until it turns glossy and thick.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the thighs rest in the sauce for 3 minutes so they stay juicy.
- Plate the Chicken: Transfer two thighs to each plate and spoon the thick sauce generously over the top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes