When it comes to delicious and comforting food, the South has a rich tradition of mouthwatering dishes that never fail to satisfy. And when it comes to one of the most iconic proteins in American cuisine – chicken – the South takes it to new heights with its signature flavors and techniques. From classic Southern fried chicken to creamy chicken and dumplings, and from spicy hot chicken to slow-cooked BBQ, there’s a wide range of mouthwatering Southern chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for your next family gathering, these 18 scrumptious Southern chicken recipes have got you covered. From comforting casseroles to flavorful grilled and baked dishes, each one is sure to transport you straight to the heart of Dixie with its rich flavors and warm, inviting aromas.
In this article, we’ll be diving into some of the most beloved and iconic Southern chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic comfort food to innovative twists on old traditions, get ready to indulge in a culinary journey through the heart of America’s South…
Classic Southern Fried Chicken
Classic Southern Fried Chicken: A Timeless Favorite
There’s nothing quite like the crispy, golden goodness of classic southern fried chicken. This recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken in batches for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes total
Southern-Style Buttermilk Chicken
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good time with this classic Southern recipe! Tender and juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a tangy buttermilk mixture, then crispy-fried to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and spicy Cajun-inspired grilled chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and the spice mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Brush olive oil on both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Place chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Southern Chicken and Waffles
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of classic Southern cuisine with this mouthwatering recipe for Southern-style chicken and waffles.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (breast, thighs, wings, and drumsticks)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Waffle batter (see below)
– Maple syrup and butter for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Cook waffles according to package instructions.
6. Serve fried chicken with a warm waffle and drizzle with maple syrup and melted butter.
Waffle Batter:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Whisk together wet ingredients, then add to dry mixture and stir until just combined.
Creamy Southern Chicken and Dumplings
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy chicken and fluffy dumplings, reminiscent of Grandma’s kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add flour, stirring to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Stir in beaten eggs and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until set.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Baked BBQ Chicken
Satisfy your cravings with this mouth-watering Southern-style baked BBQ chicken, smothered in a sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a shallow baking dish and brush the BBQ glaze all over the meat.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 2-4 people
Spicy Southern Hot Chicken
Spicy Southern Hot Chicken Recipe
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good time with this spicy twist on traditional hot chicken!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken pieces in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Chicken Pot Pie
Southern Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce with a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in frozen vegetables, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with chicken mixture and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Southern Style Chicken Gumbo
A classic Southern dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cold winter’s night. This recipe combines the richness of chicken with the spiciness of gumbo, served over fluffy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, celery, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, rice, chicken broth, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Serve hot over white rice, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of filé powder (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Chicken and Biscuits
This hearty dish combines tender chicken, creamy gravy, and flaky biscuits for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 cups biscuit mix
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over chicken; add heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens.
4. Meanwhile, prepare biscuit mix according to package instructions.
5. Place biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve chicken and gravy over warm biscuits.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smothered Southern Chicken in Gravy
Get ready to savor the comforting flavors of the South with this hearty recipe for Smothered Southern Chicken in Gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
6. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and paprika mixture. Bring to a simmer.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Chicken Salad with Pecans
This classic Southern salad combines juicy chicken, crunchy pecans, and tangy dressing for a delightful twist on traditional greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, chopped pecans, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Drizzle with buttermilk dressing and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Southern Style Chicken Fried Steak
This classic Southern dish is a staple of comfort food, with a tenderized steak coated in a crispy, golden-brown breading and served with creamy mashed potatoes and tangy gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef cube steak (or top round)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each steak piece in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels; serve hot with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total, including frying and resting time.
Southern Chicken and Cornbread Casserole
This classic Southern casserole combines tender chicken, creamy cornbread, and sweet caramelized onions for a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cornbread mix
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 large onion, caramelized (about 2 cups)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Combine cornbread mix, heavy cream, and melted butter in a bowl.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked chicken, followed by half of the cornbread mixture, and finally, half of the caramelized onions.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Chicken and Rice Pilaf
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the butter and seasonings. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in the cooked chicken.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Southern Style Chicken Wings
Experience the rich flavors of the South with this classic recipe for tender and juicy chicken wings smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Southern-style BBQ sauce (such as Sweet Baby Ray’s)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse chicken wings under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, butter, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Southern Chicken and Collard Greens
A classic Southern comfort food dish that combines tender chicken with sautéed collard greens and a hint of smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups fresh collard greens, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the chopped collard greens to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Southern Style Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of the South, this jambalaya recipe is a twist on the classic Cajun dish. This Southern-style version adds chicken and sausage for added protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add onion, celery, and garlic to pot; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add rice, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to pot; stir to combine.
6. Return chicken and sausage to pot; stir to combine.
7. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the rich flavors of the South with these 18 mouthwatering chicken recipes! From classic Southern Fried Chicken to Spicy Southern Hot Chicken, and from comforting Chicken and Waffles to hearty Chicken and Dumplings, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Cajun flavors or old-fashioned comfort food, this collection of Southern-style chicken dishes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
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