My neighbor Dorothy made this every Fourth of July potluck since Nixon was president. Only 3 ingredients and everyone wanted seconds.
🍗 Oven Baked 3-Ingredient Chicken Americana
Simple ingredients can create surprisingly bold flavors, and this easy baked chicken is a perfect example. Tender chicken breasts bake in a sweet and tangy blend of ketchup and lemon-lime soda, creating a rich glaze as it cooks. The sauce thickens in the oven, coating each piece with a delicious caramelized finish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Oven Baked 3-Ingredient Chicken Americana
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 6 |
| Ketchup | 1 cup |
| Lemon-lime soda | 1 cup |
Directions
Phase 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. Preheat and Arrange – 5 minutes
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Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer so they cook evenly.
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2. Mix the Sauce – 3 minutes
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup and lemon-lime soda until smooth. The soda helps thin the ketchup, creating an even sauce that will reduce beautifully during baking.
Phase 2: Bake and Finish
1. Bake the Chicken – 45–55 minutes
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). As it bakes, the sauce will bubble and thicken into a rich, lightly caramelized glaze.
2. Rest and Serve – 5 minutes
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the thickened sauce from the pan over each chicken breast for extra flavor, then serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
