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chicago mild sauce recipe

Chicago Mild Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever had mild sauce from a Chicago fried chicken joint, you already know—it’s all about that tangy-sweet combo!
The trick that pulls this together is a touch of white vinegar to balance out the sweetness and round out the base.
I go with equal parts ketchup and barbecue sauce, then adjust the hot sauce depending on who’s coming to dinner.
I’ve tested a few versions, but this one nails that smooth, sticky texture you want when it clings to food just right.
Simmer the sauce gently for 10–15 minutes to help everything come together—don’t rush it or it can turn out too sharp!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Sauce
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Ketchup
  • 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce
  • 3 tbsp Vinegar-based Hot Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard
  • 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 1 tsp Paprika

Instructions

  • Combine ketchup, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce in a medium saucepan.
  • Add yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the mixture.
  • Sprinkle in the paprika and stir everything together until smooth.
  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.