At Rock Hill Coca‑Cola Bottling Company, we know Easter is all about fresh blooms, pastel eggs, and gatherings around the table. While many families enjoy a classic ham, this year why not hop to a dish that’s as fun as a basket of bunnies? Say hello to our fizz‑tastic Coca‑Cola BBQ Chicken—a sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious twist that’ll have everyone clucking for more. Perfect for your Easter feast, this recipe uses Coca‑Cola Classic to create a glaze that’s downright magical. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (skinless, boneless)
• 1 cup Coca‑Cola Classic (from Rock Hill Coca‑Cola Bottling Company, of course!)
• ½ cup your favorite BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a handful of fresh parsley for garnish

Steps

1. In a large bowl, combine the Coca‑Cola Classic, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and slightly fizzy—this is your magic marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, tossing to coat them evenly in the glossy mixture. Make sure every piece is well‑covered for maximum flavor.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours—or, if you have the time, throw it in the fridge overnight. The longer, the better, as the Coca‑Cola’s sweetness will infuse the meat while the tang kicks up the flavor.
4. Preheat your grill to medium‑high heat (about 375 °F) or set your oven to 375 °F if you’re short on outdoor space. If grilling, keep a spray bottle of water nearby to control flare‑ups—this marinade is sugary, after all!
5. Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
6. If grilling: skewer the chicken or place it directly on the grates. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with extra marinade for that glossy finish. If baking: spread the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with foil. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush any remaining marinade generously over the chicken to lock in moisture and create those gorgeous caramelized edges.
8. When the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165 °F), remove it from the heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes—this ensures juicy, tender bites.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and serve immediately with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp spring salad. Watch your guests’ eyes widen as they take their first bite—yes, that’s the sound of Easter approval!